THERE is this old misconception that the European Patent Office (EPO) is part of the EU. It is not. But they're connected in a number of ways. Many people who leave their home country (sometimes with spouse and kids) are likely supportive of the EU and freedom of movement. They're likely tolerant towards intra-EU immigration and harmonisation (the UPC only misuses that word for business purposes). The EU official António Campinos replaced Benoît Battistelli only because Battistelli endorsed his appointment (for being useful to Battistelli himself) and that highlights a sick culture of nepotism and misconduct.

"The EPO might still be possible to salvage; the way things are going at present, there are layoffs on the way. Battistelli ruined it."People who support the EU and people who reject software patents in Europe (as the EU does) ought to join forces and call for accountability in the EPO before it's too later. EPO insiders are alarmed by the lack of oversight and often perceived complicity by the EU/EC. They say EPO is in intensive care (ICU) and need our help. The EPO might still be possible to salvage; the way things are going at present, there are layoffs on the way. Battistelli ruined it. That EPO logo on his lapel was like the US flag on Donald Trump's. ⬆