The Unitary Patent - A Never-ending Story?

Over fifty years after its original inception, the idea for a European unitary patent system has not yet been realised. Each attempt to introduce such a system has been met with fierce criticism and those that have come close have faced difficulties with ratification. For the most recent proposal, the so-called unitary patent package, this tradition has continued. One of the most significant issues at the core of a majority of criticisms is that the existing European patent system is fragmented and that the proposed system will further increase this fragmentation. In addition, two recent developments have put the current version of the unitary patent on hold. We are left with the question: will this story ever end?

Light lunch provided. All are welcome.