Before the end of the year, the Italian Parliament should decide on the reform of the "class action", which will lead to some interesting changes. Firstly, the scope of application, previously reserved for consumers only, will be extended to all legal entities, including professionals and entrepreneurs. All non-profit-making associations which can demonstrate that they represent the homogeneous interests of a particular group will be entitled to take action. If the Tribunal admits the action, a register of actions will be opened which any interested party may join.

Associations close to the business community criticise the fact that in future affected persons will be able to join the action even after the decision has been taken. This would make a risk assessment for the defendant company impossible before the end of the proceedings.

The decision originally scheduled for 19.11.2020 has been postponed by 6 months - i.e until next year!

In contrast, Germany is eagerly awaiting the Directive on the introduction of a European representative action, which the Member States have already agreed on 30.6.2020. The success of the already existing Musterfeststellungsklage (out newsletter reported in detail) is limited. Since its introduction in November 2018 only 13 actions (!) have been admitted nationwide.