FTF releases legal infrastructure guide for Free Software projects
2009-01-23, Zurich, Graeme West, FSFE
FSFE's Freedom Task Force (FTF) is pleased to announce the release of a guide to assist with establishing legal infrastructure for Free Software projects.
The guide [1] gives tips on how Free Software projects can consolidate their legal position. It includes information about setting up legal entities, dealing with copyright issues, managing trademarks, and best practices for project management.
"When projects start to become successful, it's important for their members to consider what structures will scale successfully, be compatible with the founding principles, and protect the integrity of the project community", says Shane Coughlan, FTF Coordinator. "This guide provides a starting point for internal debate, and can help projects prepare a description of their requirements for consultation with experts."
"Every project is different, but all can benefit from ensuring they have a sound legal basis", explains Graeme West, FTF Intern. The guide was authored by FTF staff in consultation with members of the FTF European Legal Network. It is available as part of the newly redesigned FTF web site [2], where other guides on topics like licence compliance can also be found.
[1] http://www.fsfeurope.org/projects/ftf/building-legal-infrastructure [2] http://www.fsfeurope.org/ftf/
About the Freedom Task Force
The Freedom Task Force is an activity run by Free Software Foundation Europe to help people understand Free Software licensing and the opportunities it presents. We offer educational services, facilitate larger infrastructure activities and manage FSFE's legal affairs. Our goals are to share knowledge about Free Software law, to safeguard the interests of Free Software projects, to connect experts in this field and to help other groups achieve similar goals. We believe in positive, constructive dialogue and seek at all times to support the long-term sustainability of Free Software.
The FTF's homepage can be found at http://www.fsfeurope.org/ftf You can contact us via email: ftf @ fsfeurope.org
You can phone us at: Belgium: +32 2 747 03 57 Ext. 22 Germany: +49 700 373 38 76 73 Ext. 22 Sweden: +46 31 7802160 Ext. 22 Switzerland: +41 43 500 03 66 Ext. 22 UK: +44 29 200 08 17 7 Ext. 22
Press contact: Shane Coughlan, FTF Coordinator, FSFE extension: 408
About the Free Software Foundation Europe:
The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) is a non-profit non-governmental organisation active in many European countries and involved in many global activities. Access to software determines participation in a digital society. To secure equal participation in the information age, as well as freedom of competition, the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) pursues and is dedicated to the furthering of Free Software, defined by the freedoms to use, study, modify and copy.Founded in 2001, creating awareness for these issues, securing Free Software politically and legally, and giving people Freedom by supporting development of Free Software are central issues of the FSFE.
FSFE's homepage can be found at http://www.fsfeurope.org
You can reach the FSFE switchboard from: Belgium: +32 2 747 03 57 Germany: +49 700 373 38 76 73 Sweden: +46 31 7802160 Switzerland: +41 43 500 03 66 UK: +44 29 200 08 17 7
Further information: http://www.fsfeurope.org