By Andrés Izquierdo
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) recently hosted another session of its Committee on Development and Intellectual Property (CDIP). Delegations from around the globe shared insights on the critical role of intellectual property (IP) in fostering development. These insights highlight the collective commitment to aligning IP with sustainable development goals.
On behalf of the Asia-Pacific Group, Pakistan emphasized the group’s commitment to WIPO’s mission of creating a balanced and inclusive global IP system. The implementation of the 45 Development Agenda Recommendations remains central to ensuring equitable progress in the IP system, with APG expressing appreciation for WIPO’s alignment of activities with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The group also stressed the importance of advancing work on limitations and exceptions to IP rights, which are crucial for fostering technology sharing and serving public interest, particularly in education, research, and access to knowledge. Reports on specialized databases and mobile applications projects highlighted the need for addressing developmental dimensions through demand-driven and transparent IP assistance. Additionally, APG called for improved resource mobilization and capacity-building frameworks to streamline WIPO’s technical assistance delivery.
Chile, representing GRULAC, underlined the significance of IP in driving socioeconomic development for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. GRULAC emphasized the Committee’s role in promoting international trade and addressing economic, environmental, and social challenges. Recognizing the need to extend IP benefits to SMEs and entrepreneurs, the group highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for direct impacts in the field. They also acknowledged WIPO’s efforts to assist developing nations and championed further engagement in leveraging IP for sustainable growth.
Kenya, delivering the African Group’s statement, highlighted the need for equitable access to IP resources and development priorities. The African Group stressed the importance of safeguarding traditional knowledge, cultural expressions, and genetic resources while promoting south-south and triangular cooperation. They reiterated the need to integrate the Development Agenda across all WIPO committees to ensure a coordinated approach to monitoring and evaluation.
Brazil highlighted its vision of the Development Agenda as an opportunity for WIPO to strengthen its credentials as a member of the UN family. By aligning its IP mandate with sustainable development goals, Brazil commended WIPO’s leadership in mainstreaming the Development Agenda across its activities. The adoption of the GR/ATK Treaty was celebrated as a historical achievement, bridging the gaps between biodiversity-rich nations and technology-rich nations to ensure equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources and traditional knowledge. Brazil also emphasized the RE/ADT Design Law Treaty’s provision for disclosure requirements of traditional knowledge or cultural expression sources in industrial designs, marking a progressive step towards recognizing and protecting traditional knowledge within IP frameworks. Furthermore, Brazil underlined the need to incorporate the development dimension into discussions on artificial intelligence and IP, emphasizing AI’s potential to democratize innovation and reduce global inequalities while preventing it from exacerbating existing asymmetries.
China’s delegation showcased its commitment to global development through initiatives aimed at supporting innovation and sustainable growth. The creation of a cooperation fund and the Global Development Center was highlighted as a means to support development in the global south. Efforts to reduce carbon footprints and foster green technologies through databases and annual reports were also emphasized. The delegation reaffirmed China’s dedication to supporting WIPO’s work and promoting innovative technology sharing worldwide.
The statements delivered at the CDIP session underscore the global commitment to leveraging IP for inclusive development. Through technical assistance, capacity building, and tailored solutions, WIPO continues to play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of developing countries and fostering innovation worldwide. As discussions progress, the hope remains for IP to serve as a catalyst for sustainable development and global equity.
