The Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) and Rospatent have developed a bill that would prohibit the registration of trademarks with religious symbols and semantics. The initiative also prohibits the use of religious connotations in the trade names of commercial organizations.
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As the head of the legal department of the Moscow Patriarchate, Abbess Ksenia Chernega, told Kommersant, we are talking about amendments to the Civil Code. According to a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church, the use of posters with religious symbols can offend the feelings of believers.
“The wines “Alma de Monk” and “Confession of a Sinner” are produced; “San Jorge” cigarettes are sold; the brand “Gentle Nun” is registered for the sale of hygiene products and “Church Rites” is registered for sale. alcoholic products. A private organization has registered the “Father Online” trademark, Ksenia Chernega explained the claims of the Russian Orthodox Church.
He added that the new law aims to prohibit the granting of an exclusive right to a natural or legal person, including religious organizations, to use religious symbols and sacred names.
It should be noted that the ban will not apply to already registered trademarks. They plan to present the document to the State Duma in the spring session.
And although representatives of other religions welcomed the idea, companies point out the risks of a possible innovation.
According to Stanislav Kaufman, owner of the Kaufman brand agency, the measure will have a negative impact on both proprietary and future brands.
“A discussion about this project will nullify the desire to patent this type of product, because manufacturers will not want to take risks,” warns the expert about the consequences.
Author:
Natalia Gormaleva
Source: RB
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