Joachim Schwerin from the EU Commission argues that making creators of public tools liable for crimes committed by users creates a chilling effect on innovation.
In a recent interview, Schwerin explains this approach directly contradicts the EU's broader data economy initiatives. The statement highlights ongoing tensions between:
- Developer liability and innovation
- User responsibility versus platform accountability
- EU regulatory frameworks for digital tools
The position suggests the EU Commission recognizes that overly broad liability could stifle the development of open-source tools and public infrastructure.
This perspective adds nuance to discussions around digital regulation, particularly as the EU continues implementing frameworks like GDPR and other data governance policies.
6/ In this interview, Joachim Schwerin (@EU_Commission) explains why holding a creator of a public tool liable for the crimes of users creates a chilling effect, and “is absolutely in contradiction to everything [the EU] is doing in the data economy”. youtu.be/xwgTfo39u4M?t=…
DFD Signers Push Back Against Unclear Crypto Regulations
Signers of the DFD (Declaration for Digital Freedom) are advocating for **legal certainty** in cryptocurrency regulation, emphasizing a fundamental principle of criminal law. **Key Points:** - The group supports regulation but opposes punishing builders for violating unclear or non-existent legal requirements - Legal certainty requires that rules be explicitly established before enforcement actions - This stance aligns with earlier calls for regulatory agencies to introduce only regulations that can withstand judicial scrutiny **Why It Matters:** The debate highlights ongoing tension between innovation and regulation in the crypto space. Builders need clear guidelines to operate legally, while regulators struggle to keep pace with rapidly evolving technology. [Watch Judith's full explanation](<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwgTfo39u4M&t=831s>)
Developer Liability Debate Takes Center Stage at Dutch Blockchain Week

**Alex's Case Sparks Critical Legal Discussion** Alex is presenting his story at Dutch Blockchain Week in Amsterdam, alongside his legal counsel Judith De Boer. The event centers on a fundamental question facing the decentralized technology space: - Should developers be held responsible for how users misuse their decentralized software? - The discussion addresses the legal boundaries of developer liability in open-source systems The case has drawn community support, with a legal defense fund available at [juicebox.money](https://juicebox.money/v2/p/713).
🌪️ Tornado Cash Developer Alex Pertsev Continues Legal Battle in Netherlands

**Alex Pertsev**, co-founder of Tornado Cash, remains in legal proceedings in the Netherlands as his case continues to test the boundaries of privacy technology and developer liability. **Key developments:** - Pertsev is fighting charges related to his work on Tornado Cash, a cryptocurrency privacy tool - The case has become a focal point in the debate over whether developers can be held responsible for how others use their open-source code - A legal defense fund for Pertsev and co-founder Roman Storm has raised over $350,000 - Notable supporters include Edward Snowden, who has publicly backed the defense The outcome could set important precedents for privacy technology developers and the broader crypto ecosystem.
Ethereum Foundation Completes Major Reorganization
The Ethereum Foundation has completed a months-long reorganization process, implementing changes outlined in its Mandate and Treasury Management Policy. **Key Changes:** - New organizational structure now in place - Restructured activities and team composition - Implementation follows updated treasury policy from June 2025 The treasury policy, published last year, established guidelines for: - Token sales procedures - Fiat currency purchases - Enhanced transparency reporting This reorganization marks a significant shift in how the Foundation operates, aligning its structure with its updated mandate and financial management approach.