Let's Get Rid of Software Patents in Europe and Elsewhere
The buzzwords shuffle (for computer programs or algorithms, which are reducible to maths and are hence immaterial):
THIS month we should be able to cover EPO affairs every day. This topic is highly relevant to us not just because of the "rights" aspect but also because of software patents, which are not compatible with Software Freedom. Dr. Richard Stallman said this when Linux (the kernel) was just starting.
What's at stake with software patents?
Well, a lot actually. We're also learning that EPO examiners really dislike such patents and antagonise them as well - if not best - as they can (without getting sacked).
Oligarchs are trying to ban the trade (coding) or restrict people's access to - or mere creation of - tools, instruments etc. such that they will always remain beholden to oligarchs with "tech giants" and "warchest" of patents or "patent portfolio" (the euphemism du jour for monopoly). They are, in essence, trying to illegalise resistance at its very core. Cory Doctorow's latest article (dated 8 Feb. 2024) is entitled "Big Tech disrupted disruption".
We certainly hope that the patent examiners in the EPO and elsewhere (there are tens of thousands of them in the world) will join our resistance to patents on algorithms, at some level/capacity at least. Such patents need to be eradicated for society's sake. There's lots of discussion lately about tech regulation (usually framed in the context of buzzwords like "HEY HI" or "AI"), but why are patents not brought up? Are most politicians out there bought and paid for?
"Furious examiner" recently wrote to us, expressing appreciation. "Many thanks for the work you do and for providing the world outside the EPO with important information," the examiner said. "The news about lifting the immunity of international organisation it's of the utmost importance. Many suicides within the office weren't elucidated. Apparently, the office management made [sic] pressure on the partners to "invite" them not to ask many questions. Fortunately, some colleagues harassed by the office gained visibility, like the Irish judge, and were so better protected. But what about other anonymous victims? Have a nice day."
Benoît Battistelli has plenty of blood on his hands and he's still alive, preying on some other people while hiding from or ducking authorities when new scandals emerge. António Campinos is openly promoting software patents (we did detailed rebuttals to his awful talks about it in past years) and he needs to go, along with his corrupt acolyte in the EU. One can only hope that MEPs are paying attention to this growing reputation problem. Maybe they will even do something about it, starting with the European Space Agency.
As I never worked for any of these institutions, not even indirectly, I have no stake in the outcome except as an independent programmer.
Please, EPO insiders, help us squash software patents for good. █