WIPO Adopts New IP Treaty on Genetic Resources & Traditional Knowledge

After nearly a quarter of a century, the World Intellectual Property Organization has approved a new IP treaty: the WIPO Treaty on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge. This treaty marks a significant milestone in global intellectual property regulation. Understanding the intricacies of this treaty is essential for anyone involved in the field of IP, particularly given its far-reaching implications.

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Alexander P. Wharton

Transcript

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After nearly a quarter of a century, the World Intellectual Property Organization has approved a new IP treaty: the WIPO Treaty on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge. This treaty marks a significant milestone in global intellectual property regulation. Understanding the intricacies of this treaty is essential for anyone involved in the field of IP, particularly given its far-reaching implications.

The journey towards the adoption of this treaty began in 1999 when Colombia initiated discussions on the need for an international agreement to protect genetic resources and traditional knowledge. These resources, sometimes used in the development of new inventions and scientific advancements, have long required a more robust legal framework to ensure fair use and recognition.

One of the cornerstone provisions of the new treaty is the mandatory disclosure requirement for patent applicants. This stipulation mandates that applicants whose inventions are based on genetic resources must disclose the country of origin or source of these resources. The treaty defines genetic resources as "genetic material of actual or potential value," which includes materials from medicinal plants, agricultural crops, and animal breeds.

In addition to genetic resources, the treaty also addresses traditional knowledge associated with these resources. Patent applications must now disclose the Indigenous Peoples or local communities that provided the traditional knowledge. This requirement aims to protect the interests and contributions of these communities, ensuring they receive proper recognition and benefit from their generational knowledge.

As we move forward, ongoing dialogue and cooperation among international IP stakeholders will be essential. By staying informed and adapting to new regulations, businesses can navigate the evolving IP landscape with confidence and integrity. Embracing these changes not only enhances compliance but also fosters a more inclusive and equitable global innovation ecosystem.

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