Special issue: patents in a changing Europe

Significant technological and social changes, as well as global health and climate crises, are evident in the world we live in, which pose important questions for a myriad of legal fields, including for patent law and practice. At this time of change, this special issue reflects on some key aspects of how the current European patent system is affected by contemporary technological, legal and social developments. Papers within the issue are framed around three distinct yet intersecting themes: emerging technologies and the public interest; Covid-19 and access to health-technologies; and the EU unitary patent system. We call for greater critical reflection and dialogue within—and outside—the patent community, around the role and operation of patent law, to ensure it is fit for purpose and best aligned with the public interests at stake in our current society.