A man has submitted an application in an attempt to trademark the phrase ‘Je Suis Charlie’.
The term was coined by artist Joachim Roncin but World Trademark Review is reporting that a man in Benelux lodged an application to secure use of the phrase for a series of purposes including cleaning and toilet preparations, paper goods, clothing, games, drinks, advertising and telecommunications.
Je Suis Charlie has become a global slogan used in solidarity with the French people following the massacre at the Charlie Hebdo offices last week and in support of free speech.
The application was submitted less than 24 hours after the atrocity but is believed that the trademark application will be rejected as it is “contrary to public policy or accepted principles of morality” clause that is contained in the Trademarks Directive.
