The European Union versus the Internet

Re:The European Union versus the Internet by Nursie on Tuesday September 18, 2018 @06:20PM (#18019751)

> it is just NOT assuming that the worst WON'T happen.

But it won't. You attempt to comply with the rules, show good faith and you won't be in danger.

It's not a real risk.

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Re:The European Union versus the Internet by cortesoft on Tuesday September 18, 2018 @07:57PM (#18020449)

You have no way of knowing if it is a real risk or not. The law is the law; all it takes is a shift in power, with a group coming into power that wants to make an example of your company, and suddenly the risk is very real.

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Re:The European Union versus the Internet by NeedMoreTea on Tuesday September 18, 2018 @08:56PM (#18020769)

Except we do. One of the EU's laws is that all EU penalties be proportionate [0]. All other laws are subject to that requirement.

So the moment some group "wants to make an example of your company", not that I have ever heard of anyone being made an example of that's remotely akin to US punitive damages awards or 999 year Texas jail sentences, you appeal to the national or EU court. The judge will be delighted to rule the regulator's (or government) actions illegal or disproportionate. It may well also trigger a judicial review.

For an alternative outcome you would require a change in representation at the EU from 27 nations, and repeal of one of the founding principles. Not as unthinkable as the US repealing the constitution, but not very far off.

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proportionality_(law)#European...

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