17th-Century Irish Law Shields Big Tech from EU Class Action Suits

An obscure Irish law restricting third-party litigation funding is allowing Big Tech companies to avoid class action lawsuits by European consumers seeking compensation. The restriction, rooted in 17th-century legal doctrine, creates a loophole that prevents funding organisations from financing collective legal challenges against tech firms. This legal quirk undermines European consumer protection efforts and access to justice across the bloc.

Byte's take

A 17th-century loophole just became Big Tech's best friend in Europe. Ireland's ban on litigation funding blocks consumer class actions across the EU, gutting collective redress mechanisms meant to hold platforms accountable for harms.