= The FSFE demands EU Commission sustainable long-term Free Software funding =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240911-01.sk.html ]
In the wake of the recent €27 million cut in the NGI funding, the Free
Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) is responding to growing concern by
participating in a public consultation of the European Commission. The
FSFE is stressing the urgent need for sustainable, long-term financial
support for Free Software to ensure Europe's technological independence.
The recent cut of €27 million allocated to funding for the Next
Generation Internet initiative [1] has exposed the fragility of
financial support for software freedom as a whole, and highlighted a
critical issue: Europe needs sustainable, secure, and dedicated funding
to ensure its control over technology through Free Software. Much of
Europe's digital infrastructure relies on these projects [2] to ensure
independence and resilience. Reducing or cutting funding threatens
Europe’s technological autonomy.
In response to the European Commission's unclear stance [3] on future
funding, the FSFE has participated in the public consultation, pushing
to ensure that Free Software solutions receive the necessary long-term
funding. This is the only way to successfully drive the digitalisation
of Europe forward.
“The EU’s digital strategy can only reach its full potential if it
systematically focuses on Free Software,” Alexander Sander, FSFE senior
policy consultant, emphasizes. "We demand that public funds are
allocated efficiently. Software freedom must be consistently supported
with sustainable, long-term funding. After all, if it’s public money, it
should be public code!".
1: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240719-01.sk.html
2: https://www.ngi.eu/news/2024/07/11/ngi-impact-study/
3: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240808-01.sk.html
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Apple vs EU Commission: the FSFE intervenes to safeguard Free Software =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240812-01.sk.html ]
The Free Software Foundation Europe is intervening in litigation brought
by Apple against the European Commission before the Court of Justice of
the European Union. Apple is seeking to avoid DMA obligations related to
its App Store and the interoperability of its operating system. The FSFE
aims to protect Free Software against monopolistic corporate control.
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has officially allowed
the FSFE to intervene in the litigation brought by Apple against the
European Commission [1] to avoid being designated as a ‘gatekeeper’
under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) [2]. The company has put forward an
aggressive policy against Software Freedom and interoperability, seeking
to deter the enforcement of the DMA – a law dedicated to increase
fairness and contestability in digital markets by regulating the
economic behaviour of very large tech corporations.
“Becoming an intervener in this case is crucial as the FSFE is
representing the civil society perspective, which enriches the judicial
proceedings. This allows the court to make fully informed decisions”,
says Dr. Martin Husovec, the lawyer representing FSFE in the court.
The FSFE’s intervention aims to uphold the application of the DMA to
Apple, leveraging the voice of the Free Software community [3] against
the company’s unfair practices. Free Software projects are
disproportionately affected [4] by the company’s monopolistic practices.
Apple’s fee policies, strict vendor lock-in, prohibition on side-
loading, and restriction on alternative app stores result in
insurmountable barriers against Software Freedom.
“Standing against a corporate giant like Apple, which has billions of
euros to hinder Software Freedom, reflects the FSFE's commitment to
preserving open and competitive digital environments. The FSFE's
intervention is fundamental for Device Neutrality [5], ensuring that
users and developers are not locked into proprietary systems and can
freely choose and use the software they want. The court's acceptance of
the FSFE's application underlines the importance of Free Software and
interoperability not only for digital markets, but also for user
freedoms, open internet and digital democracy”, states Lucas Lasota,
FSFE’s Legal Programme Manager.
In accepting the FSFE into the proceedings, the court stated [6] that “
/the case is likely to have a significant impact on […] the supply of
Free Software, free exchange of information and equal chances in
accessing software/ ”. Besides, the court recognized that, in case
Commissions’ designation decision would be annulled, [...] “ /such a
result would have an impact on the ability of the developers of
applications or Free Software to interconnect their applications free of
charge with Apple’s operating system iOS, which, in turn, would affect
[the] FSFE’s ability to further and distribute such software to as wide
a public as possible/ ”.
The next step for the FSFE is to submit its arguments by mid-September.
Further updates will be posted on fsfe.org [7].
1: https://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf?text=&docid=289266&page…
2: https://fsfe.org/activities/dma/dma.sk.html
3: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240627-01.sk.html
4: https://download.fsfe.org/device-neutrality/202404-FSFE-apple-report-EC.pdf
5: https://fsfe.org/activities/deviceneutrality/index
6: https://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf?text=&docid=289266&page…
7: https://fsfe.org/index.sk.html
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Europe needs Free Software to master its digital infrastructure =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240701-01.sk.html ]
The FSFE calls upon the European Commission to use Free Software to
ensure a secure and resilient digital infrastructure. Software freedom
will also benefit the economy, civil society and democracy.
The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) provided last evening its
input to the European Commission's consultation [1] on the white paper
"How to master Europe’s digital infrastructure needs?". As an advocate
for software freedom, the FSFE underscores the crucial role of Free
Software in building secure and resilient digital infrastructure for
Europe while strengthening economy, democracy and civil society alike.
Challenges around digital infrastructure occur at global, regional and
local levels, often revolving around control and access. Collaboration
and openness are playing just as important role as the capability and
skills to swiftly and effectively fix issues. Challenges addressed by
the White paper could be addressed by redirecting IT investments in
software freedom instead of procuring closed source, proprietary
software. This approach not only boosts the European IT landscape and
creates jobs but also saves costs and resources in the medium and long
term by avoiding the need to repeatedly reinvent the the wheel.
“The European digital infrastructure, the European tech market, the IT
skills of Europeans and civil society would greatly benefit if
investments in software adhered to the principle of “Public money?
Public Code!” We need software that fosters the sharing of good ideas
and solutions. Like this we will be able to manage and improve IT
services and digital infrastructure all over Europe. We need software
that guarantees freedom of choice, access, and competition. We need
software that helps public administrations regain full control of their
critical digital infrastructure, allowing them to become and remain
independent from a handful of companies. Therefore, laws and programs
are needed, that publicly financed software developed for public sector
must be made publicly available under a Free Software licence.
Investment in the Free Software ecosystem will pay off quickly while
strengthening Europe infrastructure, economy, democracy and civil
society alike.”, demands Alexander Sander, FSFE’s Senior Policy
Consultant.
The "Public Money? Public Code!" [2] initiative aims to establish Free
Software as the standard for publicly funded software. The "Public
Money? Public Code!" initiative of the Free Software Foundation Europe
is supported by over 200 organizations and administrations.
1: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/1…
2: https://fsfe.org/publiccode.eu
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Defending DMA against Apple: The FSFE signs joint position paper =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240627-01.sk.html ]
Together with nine stakeholders organisations, the FSFE has submitted a
joint position paper to the European Commission, with whom we are
working on the implementation of the Digital Markets Act. This paper,
supported by legal and data-backed arguments, addresses Apple’s non-
compliance with the law, particularly concerning software freedom,
alternative Free Software app stores and interoperability obligations.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulates large tech companies in the EU,
setting the main rules for designating gatekeepers and enforcing their
obligations. As a designated “gatekeeper”, Apple was required to present
a strategy for complying with the DMA. Since March 2024, the European
Commission (EC) has been investigating it for non-compliance [1].
Following a series of interventions, in order to assist the DMA
enforcement procedure, the FSFE is signed a joint position [2] to the
EC, highlighting the main problematic aspects of Apple in relation to
Free Software.
As far as the FSFE is concerned, the main points relate to:
- *Software freedom*: By blocking side-loading of apps and the
unfettered installation of alternative app stores, Apple is violating
Art.6(4). Concretely, paragraph 4 obliges the gatekeeper to provide
users with the possibility to easily install apps from other sources
than the gatekeeper’s own software application store. Recital (41)
clarifies that the gatekeeper is prohibited from undermining or
restricting that possibility in any way.
- *Vendor lock-in vs interoperability*: By hampering effective
interoperability with of hardware functions, the company is violating
Art. 6(7). Apple has introduced an opaque and non-accountable system
to grant interoperability that impedes Free Software projects to
effectively access hardware and software functions of devices. The DMA
prescribes the opposite: interoperability should be granted free of
charge and effectively, so third parties can enjoy the same privileged
access to hardware and software as the gatekeepers.
The FSFE welcomes the EC’s efforts in finding Apple to be in breach of
the law [3]. However, this is only the first step in a regulatory
process aimed at reducing the company’s monopolistic control over
devices.
=== Apple threatens Free Software – please help protecting software freedom! ===
The DMA includes several provisions directly impacting Free Software
[4]. It mandates “gatekeepers” to allow installing of software
(sideloading), to enable alternative app stores and repositories to be
used in devices, and several interoperability obligations, allowing
third party developers to access the same hardware functions as the
gatekeepers.
Apple’s unfair behaviour against Free Software highlights the critical
need to monitor the implementation of the DMA. The FSFE collaborated
with F-Droid, the AppFair project, and other interoperability experts to
scrutinize Apple’s DMA compliance, and it’s impact on Free Software.
Since then, we coordinated several expert workshops with stakeholders,
discussed with regulators in FOSDEM [5], had official meetings with the
EC’s DMA team [6], and submitted a comprehensive position to the EC [7]
detailing several problematic elements in the Apple compliance that will
harm the Free Software.
Free Software is key for a democratic society and we should not allow
gatekeepers to threaten our rights and freedoms. Apple has a huge
revenue from blocking Free Software on iOS, and has dedicated a lot of
resources to interpret the DMA as it deems fit. For instance, Apple
publicly stated that [8] iPhones and iPads are not general purpose
computers, and users are not allowed to run the software they want.
/Holding companies like Apple accountable under the DMA is a
complicated, time-consuming and resource-intensive activity. It can even
be a dangerous one as the risk of retaliation is real. We face it with
courage and determination. If you are not yet an FSFE supporter,/ please
join our cause today [9] /./ Defending Free Software against large
corporations takes a long time, maybe more than a decade.Our long-term
commitment includes engaging with Free Software communities across
Europe, conducting research and analysis for legal and policy positions,
participating in official hearings, and we are getting prepared to be
involved in strategic litigation.
Inflation is hitting everyone, especially organizations like ours that
rely on individual donations. Your regular support is vital to help us
continue standing up to those who seek to circumvent the law and
undermine our freedoms.
1: https://digital-markets-act.ec.europa.eu/latest-news_en
2: https://edri.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Joint-submission-on-Apple-DMA-n…
3: https://digital-markets-act.ec.europa.eu/commission-sends-preliminary-findi…
4: https://fsfe.org/activities/dma/dma.sk.html
5: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240318-02.sk.html
6: https://fsfe.org/news/nl/nl-202406.sk.html#interoperability-apple
7: https://download.fsfe.org/device-neutrality/202404-FSFE-apple-report-EC.pdf
8: https://webcast.ec.europa.eu/compliance-with-the-dma-apple-2024-03-18
9: https://my.fsfe.org/donate?amount=300&period=m
10: https://my.fsfe.org/donate?amount=300&period=m
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Are Free Software developers at risk? =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240417-01.sk.html ]
Free Software is everywhere, with studies estimating that it is present
in about 96% of the applications that we use. But what are the
responsibilities and liabilities of the Free Software developers? A
potential threat to Free Software developers looms in the form of an
ongoing lawsuit in the UK involving Bitcoin and its core developers.
Bitcoin (BTC) is a cryptocurrency created in 2009 that operates under
the MIT Free Software licence [1]. After its creator disappeared, a
group of software developers continued to develop Bitcoin independently.
Currently, Dr. Craig Wright, who claimed to be the creator of Bitcoin
[2], is suing the Bitcoin developers in the UK courts through his
company, Tulip Trading Limited (Tulip). This company claims to have lost
£3 billion worth of bitcoin due to a hack that compromised the private
keys, resulting in the loss of access to the funds. In this lawsuit
Tulip is demanding that the Bitcoin developers provide access to the
lost Bitcoin, arguing that the developers have a legal obligation to
provide access or offer equitable compensation or damages.
As such, this legal case is currently drawing attention to the issue of
Free Software developers' liability, in particular the extent to which
they are responsible to their users.
=== UK High Court’s opinion: Developers have no legal duties or a duty of care in this case, but they do have certain duties in some specific situations. ===
The High Court considered whether software developers and controllers of
digital asset networks bear legal obligations to cryptocurrency holders
who rely on their software. The court ruled in favour of the developers
[3], stating that as a "fluctuating body of individuals", the developers
could not realistically maintain ongoing obligations. The court rejected
the notion that developers should be compelled to provide software
updates upon the request of digital asset owners, emphasising the
absence of any explicit commitment or assurance by the developers.
Regarding the alleged tortious duties, the Court determined that the
developers did not owe Tulip a duty of care, highlighting that Tulip's
loss was solely economic.
/A duty of care is a legal responsibility imposed on an individual that
requires them to follow a level of reasonable care when conducting any
acts that could endanger others./ However, the court recognized that,
in certain cases, *software developers have specific duties. For
instance, developers must exercise caution to avoid harming users'
interests and may have an obligation to remedy bugs or faults in the
system*.
The court also acknowledged that the disclaimer in the MIT license [4],
broadly disclaims liability for software issues. However, the court did
not confirm whether this disclaimer absolved BTC Network developers of
responsibility for its operation. This is because:
- the MIT disclaimer has never been litigated, and the court is free to
decide and set precedent.
- such disclaimers are not easily found when using software.
=== UK Court of Appeal’s opinion: Arguable that developers owe some fiduciary legal duties ===
On appeal, the Court of Appeal (the second highest court in the UK)
overturned the High Court's decision [5], concluding that it was at
least arguable that the developers owe fiduciary legal duties to
cryptocurrency owners. The court noted the exclusive control of the
Bitcoin software code by a small group of developers and their decision-
making role on behalf of all Bitcoin owners, resembling fiduciary
responsibilities. The court also noted that only a handful of developers
have exclusive access to the Bitcoin software code on GitHub. For
example, if a Bitcoin owner notices a bug, he or she is unable to fix it
because only the developers with access can do so, and they have to
agree to do so. In the eyes of the court, this is a clear exercise of
the de facto power of the developers. The court completely missed the
point that no one can prevent others from applying a fix to the code -
that is part of the fundamental freedom that comes with Free Software:
if the developers of a particular repository refuse to apply needed
fixes, the community can fork the project and bypass those developers.
Furthermore, code is speech. Freedom of expression includes expression
in the language of computer code as well. Imposing disproportionate
duties on Free Software developers forces them to change their code, and
therefore infringes on their freedom of expression. The court also
observed that the developers have a positive duty to fix bugs and code
errors and a negative duty to refrain from acting in their own self-
interest.
In summary, Tulip's case raises significant legal questions, and
according to the latest developments, Tulip must prove ownership of the
alleged stolen bitcoins in a preliminary trial [6].
=== Chilling effect on Free Software development? ===
Common law in the UK (and other countries) is developed through court
decisions and precedents. When a court makes a decision in a case, it
establishes a legal precedent that serves as a guide for future cases
with similar circumstances. Lower courts generally have to follow the
precedents set by the higher courts. Courts in common law countries tend
to also borrow concepts and precedents from other countries if there is
no local precedent available. The law and legal scholarship around Free
Software developers’ duties is underdeveloped and almost non-existent.
If Tulip succeeds in their case, it may set an international legal
precedent, opening the floodgates to litigation. This means that any
user of Free Software could potentially sue developers for alleged
breaches of duty.
/A fiduciary duty, as claimed by Tulip, refers to the legal duty of a
person or entity to act in the best interests of another party,
typically referred to as the beneficiary or principal. This duty is
characterized by trust, confidence, and reliance on the fiduciary to act
ethically and responsibly on behalf of the beneficiary. Fiduciary duties
exist in only very specific relationships, like those of trustees,
solicitors, agents, partners, and company directors. Attaching these
duties to Free Software developers is unprecedented and
disproportionate./ Free Software production, a catalyst for
technological innovation, relies on voluntary contributions. Imposing
fiduciary duties (or any disproportionate duties) on developers could
deter them from participating in Free Software projects, fearing legal
repercussions. This could lead to a chilling effect, where developers
opt for more restrictive licensing, or refrain from sharing their code
altogether, or release the software only in jurisdictions where there
are no duties out of fear of litigation. The results of such an effect
would be disastrous; stifling innovation and potentially halting the
progress of specific Free Software endeavours.
In essence, if the court rules in favour of Tulip, it can have far-
reaching consequences that can be detrimental to the Free Software
developers in the following ways:
1. Courts may impose an active duty on Free Software developers to fix
what the courts deem to be problematic issues.
2. In future courts may impose an active duty on Free Software
developers to not cause any bugs that impact users. This can
potentially expose the developers to litigation for just letting
through a bug or failing to spot a bug.
3. Courts may also impose obligations on Free Software developers that
require them to compromise the cryptographic integrity guarantees of
the software. This could involve mandates to weaken encryption
algorithms or provide backdoor access, directly undermining the
security measures designed to protect user privacy and data
confidentiality. Such orders would not only compromise the
effectiveness of encryption software but also the tools such as
secure file deletion or data recovery.
Free Software development thrives on the collaborative efforts of
developers worldwide, continually evolving. The developers’ autonomy
inherent in Free Software must not be jeopardized by the fear of unjust
litigation. FSFE remains vigilant in safeguarding against threats to
developer autonomy that could stifle innovation. In the light of these
concerns, we call upon the developers to persist in their invaluable
work without fear.
1: https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin
2: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/mar/14/australian-craig-wright-…
3: https://download.fsfe.org/legal/documents/first-instance-decision-dismissin…
4: https://opensource.org/license/MIT
5: https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Tulip-v-Van-Der-Laan-ju…
6: https://download.fsfe.org/legal/documents/PRELIMINARY%20ISSUE%20TRIAL.pdf
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= CRA & PLD: Liability rules with large exemptions for Free Software are introduced =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240312-01.sk.html ]
With today's votes on CRA and PLD on the introduction of liability rules
for software, a broad exception for Free Software was made, so that
after long and intense debates individual developers and non for profit
work are safeguarded.
On Tuesday, March 12, the two votes in the plenary of the European
Parliament on the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the Product Liability
Directive (PLD) marked the provisional end of a long debate on the
introduction of liability rules for software - with a broad exemption
for Free Software.
Already at an early stage, the FSFE argued in a hearing in the EU
Parliament [1], for the inclusion of clear and precise exemptions for
Free Software development in the legislation and for liability to be
transferred to those who significantly financially benefit from it on
the market.
The co-legislators have largely complied with our demands and following
intensive debates, have significantly improved the Commission’s
proposal, by introducing an exemption for Free Software and including it
in the articles of the regulation. In the future, individual developers
and non-profit development of Free Software will be exempt from the CRA
and the PLD. Nevertheless, the wording in both the regulations are
different and a standardisation processes and guidelines are still being
drawn up. We will therefore closely monitor the implementation and
whether Software Freedom is protected accordingly. The efforts of Free
Software advocates have also helped to ensure that decision maker in EU
institutions now have a better understanding of Free Software and its
various stakeholders, which will be useful in future debates.
"In the debate about liability rules for Free Software, it has
become clear how important Free Software is for our economic and
social development. On the other hand, it has also become clear what
needs to be taken into account in the Regulation when it comes to
software freedom. This has shown the immense importance of working
together with the various stakeholders in Free Software development
and distribution and as well as to understand and accommodate the
different interests of these players," concludes Alexander Sander,
FSFE`s Senior Policy Consultant.
1: https://fsfe.org/news/2023/news-20230323-01.sk.html
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Let’s make Device Neutrality a reality in Europe! =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240307-01.sk.html ]
As the Digital Markets Act comes into effect today, Device Neutrality
starts to become a tangible reality in the European Union. While
acknowledging the new law, the FSFE alerts that this is only the first
step and further commitment is necessary.
Digital devices are becoming increasingly important tools in our daily
tasks, with more and more of us using them in different areas of our
lives. However, we, as end-users, are losing control over them –
especially the ability to run Free Software – due to unfair practices by
device manufacturers, vendors, and platforms.
Device Neutrality [1] aims to restore end-user control over devices by
ensuring software freedom in devices, protecting users from lock-ins and
promoting their control over data in devices. It seeks to enable end-
users to run the software of their choice and use services independently
of the control exercised by hardware manufacturers, vendors, and
platforms, known as gatekeepers.
Some aspects of Device Neutrality are imposed on large tech companies by
the Digital Markets Act (DMA) [2], a recent EU law that enters into
force on 7 March, to reestablish higher degrees of competition in
digital markets. Therefore, the DMA will be applicable to six
gatekeepers [3]: Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Bytedance, Meta, and
Microsoft.
The FSFE has been involved with the DMA throughout the legislative
process, and welcomes its entry into force, which makes several elements
of Device Neutrality legally enforceable. However, while the DMA
represents a very important step in holding gatekeepers accountable for
their negative disruptions and distortions in digital markets, the law
alone is not enough to promote Device Neutrality to the extent necessary
to re-empower end-user control over devices.
== The Digital Markets Act: only a first step towards Device Neutrality ==
Initially, the enforcement of the DMA will be challenging, as the law
addresses diverse aspects of devices including the (un)installation of
software, the use of third-party apps stores and payment systems,
interoperability obligations for operating systems and messaging apps,
and some degree of real-time data portability. Imposing legal
obligations on such elements will require considerable enforcement
efforts and proper monitoring of the technical solutions implemented by
the gatekeepers.
Besides, similarly to Router Freedom [4] where network operators create
various barriers and hurdles for end-users to exercise that right,
gatekeepers may try hard to avoid implementing solutions that will fully
benefit end-users, but rather may use the law in ways that can hinder
end-users’ rights related to Device Neutrality. For instance, the tech
company Apple – one of the gatekeepers – has already gone to court to
avoid the DMA obligations, and decided to implement an absurd strategy
against third-party apps stores (PDF) [5] that will negatively impact
the ability of alternatives such as F-Droid to enter iOS environments.
For these reasons, the FSFE will collaborate with the European
Commission and other regulators to monitor compliance with the DMA, so
that the DMA will act as a catalyst for Device Neutrality rather than an
additional barrier to it.
“DMA represents a bold step from the EU to regulate large companies
acting as gatekeepers over devices. However, proper implementation
of the law will be challenging, and it will require strict
monitoring from civil society to safeguard Device Neutrality. Open
Internet needs Device Neutrality. Free Software is key to achieve
that”.
-Lucas Lasota, FSFE’s Legal Programme Manager -
== Going beyond very large platforms ==
The DMA is limited to big tech companies. The law only applies to
enterprises providing services to at least 45 million monthly active
end-users established or located in the EU on a yearly basis. Taking
into account other quantitative restrictions, Device Neutrality is
safeguarded by the law against only a handful of gatekeepers. Smaller
companies may also engage in predatory behavior against Device
Neutrality, negatively impacting end-users' rights. However, they are
not covered by the DMA.
That’s why the FSFE is promoting Device Neutrality in a much broader
context to include not only large companies but any device manufacturer,
vendor, or platform. We strongly believe that software freedom should be
the default standard and end-users should not be imprisoned into lock-
ins. Tech companies should not trap users into walled gardens that limit
what they can do with their devices.
In parallel to its involvement with the DMA, the FSFE is launching a new
website for Device Neutrality [6] to raise public awareness of topics
concerning Device Neutrality. This site points to in-depth insights
about Device Neutrality and Free Software, downloadable promotional
material, and ways to spread the word. Check it out!
== Supporting the work on Device Neutrality ==
Higher degrees of openness and equality in digital markets can only be
achieved when end-users can enjoy software freedom with their devices.
The DMA is the first step, and the FSFE will continue to work for Device
Neutrality in different areas: monitoring DMA implementation, overseeing
compliance, collaborating with regulators and policy makers, promoting
public awareness, and expanding the agenda beyond gatekeepers. For that,
we count on your support for our work with a donation. Get active and
help us empower you to regain control over your devices!
I want to donate for Device Neutrality! [7]
1: https://deviceneutrality.org/
2: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32022R1925
3: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_4328
4: https://fsfe.org/activities/routers/routers.sk.html
5: https://download.fsfe.org/device-neutrality/fsfe-apple-report-final.pdf
6: https://deviceneutrality.org/
7: https://my.fsfe.org/donate?referrer=https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-2024030…
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
= Interoperable Europe Act adopted, close monitoring vital =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2024/news-20240206-01.sk.html ]
Today the Interoperable Europe Act has been adopted in plenary with 524
votes in favour, 18 against and 97 abstentions. Although some of the
potential of the regulation got undermined, the Act as a whole is an
important opportunity for Free Software and its community to contribute
to an interoperable Europe. The FSFE will closely monitor its
implementation.
Interoperability stands as a cornerstone in the establishment of a
seamlessly connected and digitalized infrastructure. Through the
Interoperable Europe Act, the EU is aiming to enhance interoperability
in cross-border digital public services. The FSFE has urged decision
makers to recognise the crucial role of Free Software and the expertise
of its community in achieving this goal in this regulation. As with our
Public Money? Pubic Code! Initiative [1], we have demanded decision
makers to acknowledge the role of Free Software in fostering digital
European public administrations while having control and sovereignty
over the software they are using and making sure that public funds are
spent in the most efficient way.
In spite of our efforts to integrate the Free Software community into
the decision making power body, the Interoperable Europe Board, decision
makers have opted to involve this community solely within the
Interoperable Europe Community. While this allows the community to
provide expertise, it underscores the importance of closely monitoring
the implementation of this regulation. Such monitoring helps identify
opportune moments for civil society, including the Free Software
community, to contribute effectively.
Beyond these limitations and some ambiguities in the wording in many
parts of the text (see Interoperable Europe Act: an ambition that turned
out to be watered-down [2] ), we welcome that decision makers have heard
some of our demands [3]. We managed to include provisions mandating the
European Commission to provide an annual report on the development of
Free Software interoperability solutions for public services, while
including requirements to set up actions in support of Free Software
interoperability solutions. These actions will be instrumental in
assessing the Act’s success in prioritising the use of Free Software and
will help us to keep being a watchdog on the matter.
/With the text now finalised, the most crucial phase of the regulation
begins - its implementation. We will monitor the implementation to make
sure that Free Software reaches its full potential as an enabler of
transparent, reusable and shareable solutions. We will also keep a close
watch for opportunities where the Free Software community can engage and
by providing its expertise support public administrations throughout the
EU in delivering Free Software interoperable digital services/ states
Lina Ceballos, FSFE Policy Project Manager.
1: https://publiccode.eu
2: https://fsfe.org/news/2023/news-20231113-01.sk.html
3: https://fsfe.org/news/2023/news-20230323-02.sk.html
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org
The 2024 edition of the Youth Hacking 4 Freedom competition is about to
start! Registration is now open and the contest kicks off on 7 December!
Since the start of the competition in 2021 more than 150 teenagers have
already taken part in it. Youth Hacking 4 Freedom offers young
Europeans, between 14 and 18 years, the opportunity to design and
develop their own project using Free Software, and to win more than
€4000 and a weekend in Brussels.
Run by the Free Software Foundation Europe, Youth Hacking 4 Freedom
[yh4f.org] is a free competition for young Europeans that offers the
chance to work on their own projects, alone or in teams. The 6 winners
will receive a cash prize ranging from 1024 € to 4096 €. But at Youth
Hacking 4 Freedom everybody is getting something out of the competition.
Participants have the chance to meet our Free Software experts from the
jury as well as other teenagers from all over Europe and build
friendships that can last a lifetime.
“I wanted to create a privacy friendly version of ‘Kahoot!’
so students do not get tracked while using it, which I think
it is really important!" -Marlon, YH4F2023 winner -
“Since I had some experience in developing software and
using versioning tools like Git, I took the opportunity to
practice and improve my skills even further.(...) I also
learned a lot about decentralization and how to write good
documentation. Lastly, I was interested in meeting other
like-minded people, so I joined the Matrix channel and had a
lot of fun discussing topics related to Free Software”
-Konrad 2022 participant-
At Youth Hacking 4 Freedom, participants not only improve their
programming skills from beginner to advanced, but also learn how to work
on a 6-month project, developing organisation, time management and
project planning skills. It also gives them a chance to be creative and
develop something they really like, as well as the pride of developing
their own project.
You can find all the information in the YH4F media kit on our download
server:
https://download.fsfe.org/YH4F/Youth%20Hacking%204%20Freedom%20-%202024.pdf
Youth Hacking 4 Freedom in a nutshell.
• Participants must be born between 1 January 2004 and 31 December
2008.
• Participation is free, but registration is mandatory.
• Registration is open throughout the coding period:
https://survey.fsfe.org/index.php/658534
• The opening takes place on 7 December 2023.
• The coding period runs from 1 January to 30 June 2024.
• During the programming period, participants are free to attend
the monthly online meetings.
• The first, second and third place winners will receive €4,096,
€2,048 and €1,024 respectively. There will also be three special prizes
of €1,024. In total, around €10,000 will be awarded.
• Each participant who submits a project will also receive a
certificate of participation and a special prize.
• The competition will be conducted remotely, except for the award
ceremony, which will take place in Brussels during a weekend in October
2024 (to which the winners and a family member will be invited on an
all-expenses-paid basis).
For more information, please visit:https://yh4f.org or send an email to
contact at fsfe.org <https://lists.fsfe.org/mailman/listinfo/press-release> with YH4F in the subject line. You can also find more
information about the successful previous editions here:
https://fsfe.org/tags/tagged-yh4f.html and the media kit:
https://download.fsfe.org/YH4F/Youth%20Hacking%204%20Freedom%20-%202024.pdf
= 2024 Youth Hacking 4 Freedom kicks off =
[ Read online: https://fsfe.org/news/2023/news-20231116-01.sk.html ]
Registration is now open for the 2024 edition of Youth Hacking 4
Freedom, the coding competition for young Europeans. This competition
gives teenagers the opportunity to code their own projects – alone or in
a team –, make new friends across Europe, and win up to €4,096!
After two successful editions, Youth Hacking 4 Freedom [1], the Free
Software Foundation Europe's coding competition for young Europeans,
opens registration for the third round [2]. YH4F 2024 kicks off on 7
December with an online event to answer participants' questions before
the coding period starts in January 2024. More than €10,000, in cash,
will be awarded to the six winners of the 2024 edition. €4,096 will be
paid out for the first place, €2,048 for the second place, and €1,024
for the third place and for each of three special prizes. Besides, all
participants who submit a project will get a YH4F special participation
prize.
The aim of this competition is to bring together young people from all
over Europe who are interested in coding, regardless of their current
level of coding. For six months, participants – who must be between 14
and 18 years old at the time of registration – will have the chance to
work on their own Free Software projects, either alone or in a team.
Participants must register to enter the competition, which kicks off on
7 December with an online event explaining the competition in detail.
This kick-off event is a great opportunity for anyone who might have
doubts about taking part to get their questions answered and to
understand how this competition works and why anyone, regardless of
their coding skills, is more than welcome to take part.
Once the coding period starts on 1 January 2024, participants will have
the opportunity to work on their projects for the next six months until
30 June 2024, when they must submit their projects. Late registration is
possible, as is changing the original project idea, but the coding
period will not be extended.
During these six months, participants will also have the opportunity to
meet and make friends with other young Europeans who share their
interests and, most likely, coding challenges. And optional monthly
online meetings will be held to guide them through this coding period
and learn how to do a successful Free Software project, learn from
previous participants' experiences, and get some tips from our
experienced jury members.
In July and August 2024 an international jury of technical experts will
review the projects. The winners will be notified in September 2024 and
officially announced at the Award Ceremony weekend in Brussels in
October 2024.
=== Opening event – 7 December ===
At the online opening event on 7 December, YH4F organizers will explain
in depth what is expected from the participants as well as answer their
questions. Moreover, participants will have the chance to ask questions
to previous editions' participants, who will be explaining their
experience at this competition.
On the YH4F website [3], further information can be found about
registration, the opening event, and the competition in general. If you
should have any questions, you can always contact us at contact(a)fsfe.org
[4].
=== Sponsor 2024 Youth Hacking 4 Freedom ===
The 2023 contest was made possible thanks to generous funding by
Reinhard Wiesemann and the Linuxhotel GmbH.
If you want to sponsor the 2024 or future editions of YH4F, please reach
out to us through contact(a)fsfe.org [5].
1: https://yh4f.org
2: https://survey.fsfe.org/index.php/658534
3: https://yh4f.org
4: https://fsfe.org/mailto:contact@fsfe.org
5: https://fsfe.org/mailto:contact@fsfe.org
== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==
Free Software Foundation Europe is a charity that empowers users to
control technology. Software is deeply involved in all aspects of our
lives; and it is important that this technology empowers rather than
restricts us. Free Software gives everybody the rights to use,
understand, adapt and share software. These rights help support other
fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech, press and privacy.
The FSFE helps individuals and organisations understand how Free
Software contributes to freedom, transparency and self-determination. We
enhance users' rights by abolishing barriers to Free Software adoption,
encourage people to use and develop Free Software, and provide resources
to enable everyone to further promote Free Software in Europe.
https://fsfe.org