Last Updated on 2022-07-08 by Joop Beris
As I mentioned before, in many countries across Europe, massive demonstrations and protests have been and are being held to tell our governments that a substantial portion of European citizens are opposed to ACTA. Here in The Netherlands, a protest is being organized in Amsterdam, this Saturday. Now, the Dutch are not known for their massive protests or eagerness to make themselves heard. Sure, they complain and bitch a lot but when push comes to shove, they usually back down. Perhaps we have grown too accustomed to our freedom and privileges. Perhaps we have forgotten that the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. Perhaps also, we think that protests don’t really work. Well, if you think that, I have good news for you! After Poland, the Czech republic has also announced it is pausing the ACTA ratification process as a direct result of massive protests. This is a major victory for the protesters, though ACTA is far from dead. It will be in a sad day indeed if we here in Western Europe let the Eastern Europeans defeat ACTA for us. We have to do our part and make ourselves heard!
In other news, Forbes has published an excellent article by Paul Tassi, entitled You Will Never Kill Piracy, and Piracy Will Never Kill You. An excellent read that explains very clearly that the entertainment industry is relying on outdated business models. It urges them to evolve and get with the times.