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The European Patent Office
The European Patent Office (EPO) provides a uniform application procedure for individual inventors and companies seeking patent protection in up to 38 European countries. It is the executive arm of the European Patent Organisation and is supervised by the Administrative Council.
Mission
The mission of the EPO is to support innovation, competitiveness and economic growth for the benefit of the citizens of Europe.
Read the mission statement
President
The current President of the EPO is Alison Brimelow of the United Kingdom.
More about the President
Management
The President, the five Vice-Presidents and three other members comprise the EPO's Management Committee.
More about the management
History
The EPO is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its founding this year.
More about the EPO's history
Annual reports
Activities
The Office's core activity is the examination of patent applications and the grant of European patents. Other activities include the provision of patent information and training services.
More about the EPO's activities
International relations
The Office co-operates closely with the patent offices in the 34 member states and around the world.
More about international relations
European Patent Academy
The European Patent Academy provides patent-related IP education and training to lawyers, patent office staff, judges and others.
More about the Academy
Official holidays
The filing offices observe different public holidays. See the list of official holidays in 2008
Statistics
Statistics on European patents and patent applications.