Inter-Regional Forum on Development and Service-Oriented IP Administration

A WIPO Inter-Regional Forum on Development and Service-Oriented Intellectual Property (IP) Administration, which took place in Geneva on July 1 and 2, was the first of its kind to take an in-depth look at the needs and expectations of IP administrations of all countries. Intensive discussions focused on IP-related institutional and policy challenges, opportunities and reforms in the context of overall national development strategies with a view to making a positive and tangible contribution to social, cultural and economic development.

The Forum covered ten broad themes of vital interest to IP administrations to meet the challenges and seize the emerging opportunities in the field of IP and in making such administrations more responsive to and consistent with the attainment of national development objectives. Among the core issues discussed was the need to heighten awareness of IP and its critical role in promoting development. Participants also discussed the importance of a development dimension in the formulation of IP policies and strategies, in line with the WIPO Development Agenda. Information technology in IP management and the role of IP administrations in international negotiations were also addressed. The Forum also underscored the significance of sub-regional, regional and international...