20 December 2016

The European Patent Office – its employees, managers and all staff – are deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific attack which took place at a Christmas market in Berlin on Monday, 19 December 2016.

As an international organisation based in Germany and with an Office in Berlin, the European Patent Office condemns blind hatred and believes in an open and inclusive society based on fundamental principles of freedom, equality and justice. We believe that the attack will never be able to destroy these principles, nor our values of cultural diversity, tolerance and mutual respect.  

We express our deepest solidarity with the people of Germany and our heartfelt sympathy goes to the victims, their families, relatives and friends. As a symbol of our solidarity with Germany and the German people, and out of respect for the victims, the flags in front of our buildings will be flown at half-mast.

Benoît Battistelli