The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) is pleased to announce that both Rhodes in Greece and Riga in Latvia have recently been certified as Authenticities, an achievement of the European Cooperation Project ECP5 - European Network of Authenticities. These milestones were accomplished by the Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) and the Municipality of Rhodes on 27 June 2025, and by the Latvian Patent Office and the Riga State City Municipality on 14 September 2025.
Rhodes is the capital of the Dodecanese islands and a leading Mediterranean tourist destination, home to one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its international airport and modern port ensure excellent connectivity with major European cities and cruise itineraries. The city also features a lively commercial market, including luxury shopping and local artisan goods, while hosting educational institutions like the University of the Aegean, attracting students from across Greece.
Riga is the capital and largest city of Latvia, and it serves as the country’s main political, economic, and cultural centre, as well as a key transportation and trade hub in Northern Europe. The city boasts a diversified economy with strengths in information and communication technologies, global business services, manufacturing and a dynamic startup ecosystem. Riga is home to leading national institutions, including the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, the National Library of Latvia, and several major universities, alongside a vibrant independent arts scene. The historic center of Riga, with its unique architectural heritage, has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Through the ECP5 project, local governments, businesses, and the public are encouraged to recognize the value of intellectual property, understand the harm caused by counterfeiting in European cities, and support authentic products.
The European Network of Authenticity now includes 21 municipalities, reaching a potential of over 7 million citizens.
