Ainuõigus

Ainuõigus is an Estonian legal concept referring to an exclusive right granted to a person or entity to perform a specific act or to use a designated asset, and to restrict others from doing the same without permission. Such rights may arise from statutory provisions, contractual agreements, or licenses, and they can cover areas such as intellectual property, exploitation of natural resources, or regulated activities. An ainuõigus is typically defined by scope (what is covered), duration, and geographic territory.

Creation and examples: In intellectual property, patent holders, copyright owners, and trademark owners often enjoy exclusive rights to use, reproduce, distribute, or license; in natural resources, a concession or exploration permit can grant exclusive exploitation rights within a region; in contracts, an exclusive license creates a restricted field of use for a product or service.

Limitations and relation to competition law: Exclusive rights are not unlimited; they may be subject to competition rules, public interest, or compulsory licensing in certain circumstances. In some cases, exclusive rights can be challenged if they unreasonably restrict access or abuse market power.

Comparison: Unlike a general monopoly, an ainuõigus is a right created and limited by law or contract, balancing private interests with public policy.

See also: exclusive right, monopoly, intellectual property, license.