With great sadness we have just learnt of the passing of Georges Straschnov, formerly Director of the EBU Legal Affairs Department, at the age of 88.

Georges Straschnov joined the EBU in 1951 and remained with us until his retirement in 1976.

He was particularly involved in the legal issues raised by the first Eurovision relays, together with the field of copyright and neighbouring rights where he displayed his high level of competence.

Georges Straschnov was also an expert in relations with the industrial sector, new technology and negotiations on transmission rights for sports events.

Those who knew him are well aware how much the smooth running of the EBU owed to this remarkable man who, through his competence and his experience, played a major role in the decisions taken in the EBU for 26 years.

Georges Straschnov was born in Prague. He was doctor of law from the universities of Prague and Paris.

Prior to the Second World War, during which he was an active member of the French Resistance, he worked as a legal advisor.

From 1945 to 1946 he worked in the legal service of RTF before becoming legal advisor for OIR from 1947 to 1950.