I changed my license
summary
Permissive open source licenses often benefit large corporations more than the developers who create the software. Switching to a strong copyleft license like the European Union Public License (EUPL) prevents companies from using software without contributing back. This shift ensures that improvements remain open and closes the SaaS loophole that allows cloud providers to profit from open code without reciprocity. The goal is to prioritize the software's long-term freedom over corporate convenience.
key points
- The European Union Public License is a strong copyleft alternative that requires reciprocal licensing even when software is provided as a service.
- Permissive licenses like MIT were designed for easy interoperability but ultimately allowed billionaires to build wealth using free labor without obligation.
- EUPL provides a significant global advantage by offering legally valid translations in 23 different languages, making it accessible beyond the US tech hub.
who should read it
Software developers and open source contributors who are reconsidering how to license their work to ensure fair reciprocity.
discussion skeptical
consensus
Commenters are divided and uncertain about the interpretation of the EUPL's compatibility clause, specifically whether it allows for the conversion of code to weaker licenses like the MPL or LGPL. While some argue the clause is intended to maintain strong copyleft and SaaS loophole protections, others believe it creates a significant loophole that allows Big Tech to bypass those protections via wrappers. The general sentiment is that the license is ambiguous and may require further clarification in future versions.
top insight
The most valuable insight is that the EUPL's compatibility clause may lead to a 'hybrid' legal state where EUPL obligations persist even when a work is distributed under a compatible license, provided there is no direct conflict. This suggests that the EUPL is not a simple relicensing tool but a complex framework designed to harmonize intellectual property laws across EU member states, making it a distinct alternative to the AGPL for those targeting government agencies.
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