Russia-Ukraine war

Russia has taken its first steps in seizing assets from Western companies that suspend operations in Russia because of imposed sanctions. Russia has retaliated by "suspending" their intellectual property, as they are parties affiliated with "unfriendly countries". The measure will have further implications for Western companies and their IP rights in Russia. A lower court ruling in Russia illustrates how Russia will probably allow the ongoing infringement of intellectual property rights.

The rule of law is at the very core of who we are and what we do at De Brauw. By waging an unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, Mr Putin and his regime are not just breaching elementary principles of international law and human rights. They are attacking the fundamental values that define our modern European society. We recognise that this is not a war instigated by the Russian people, yet we firmly condemn the illegal actions of their autocratic ruler and his entourage. We urge the European Union and the Dutch government to remain decisive and uncompromising in their support of Ukraine. Our hearts go out to the Ukrainian people. Their bravery is an example to us all.

A proposal to update the Dutch Corporate Governance Code was published on 21 February 2022. The proposal prepared by the Corporate Governance Code Monitoring Committee (the "Committee") is set out in a consultation document inviting interested parties to respond by 17 April 2022. The Committee aims to adopt a revised Code later this year, with such revised Code applying to financial years starting on or after 1 January 2023. Companies would have until the end of 2023 to ensure that they comply with the revised Code.