The Impact of the Damages Directive on the Enforcement of EU Competition Law

A Law and Economics Analysis

New Horizons in Competition Law and Economics series

Philipp Kirst, Lawyer, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, Germany and researcher, Rotterdam Institute of Law and Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands

This cutting-edge book provides a thorough analysis of the transposition of the rules of the EU Damages Directive, examining their impact on the enforcement of competition law and the victim’s right to full compensation. It also studies the possible consequences of an anticipated rise in civil damages actions in Europe and how this, in turn, may alter the effectiveness of the enforcement system.

‘This high-quality book is appreciated for its clear and justified methodology, its in-depth analyses, and its concrete proposals for improvement. The author accompanies the reader with numerous examples and offers a rich appendix to complement his comments. A book to be recommended without hesitation!’
– Agnès Reinhold, Concurrences

‘The construction of an effective enforcement regime that compensates the victims of EU competition law infringements continues to present a multifaceted challenge for policy-makers and legislatures. Indeed, despite the adoption of the EU Directive on antitrust damages, how that specific challenge can be overcome in Europe is as of yet unresolved. Through critical evaluation of the applicable EU law, Philipp Kirst’s well-researched and carefully-argued book helpfully scrutinises key aspects of the challenge at issue. It presents numerous perceptive, insightful analyses that, along with the recommendations advanced, deserve to be very closely examined by stakeholders. It is a welcome, important and convincing addition to the literature.’
– Peter Whelan, University of Leeds, UK