Theory and practice of intellectual property
№ 2 / 2019

ISSN (Print) 2308-0361
ISSN (Online) 2519-2744

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33731/22019.167301

Published      2019-05-16

Virtual object as challenge for established approaches of property law

Liubov Maidanyk
Ukraine

Abstract
This article is devoted to the study of the concept of a virtual object from the private-law point of view, taking into account the practice of foreign countries: court decisions of Supreme Court of Netherlands and practice of the European Court of Justice. Approach of considering a virtual object as inalienable thing is discussed. On the basis of the analysis of individual court decisions, the question is raised about the possibility of extending the regime of property rights to a virtual object under the conditions of private law of Ukraine. The main aspects that restrict domination of a user or owner over a virtual object, regardless of the will of other persons are highlightened through «digital force» of online platforms owners and game developers.

Keywords: virtual object, virtual property, property law, inalienable thing

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