WIPO: a key player in global intellectual property

A part of the MARK & LAW team had the opportunity to visit the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), based in Geneva, a key player in promoting and protecting intellectual property (IP) rights on a global scale.

What is WIPO?
Founded in 1967, WIPO is a specialized agency of the United Nations with the mission to encourage innovation and creativity through a balanced and accessible international intellectual property system. It currently has 193 member states and administers several international treaties, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and the Madrid Agreement concerning the international registration of trademarks.

During our visit, we had the chance to exchange with WIPO experts on various issues, including the evolution of patent and trademark systems, and initiatives aimed at facilitating access to IP rights protection for businesses worldwide.

WIPO also positions itself as a key player in adapting IP regulations to contemporary challenges, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the impact of digital transformations on existing legal systems.

The Importance of WIPO
Businesses are increasingly operating within a global framework. The mechanisms offered by WIPO, such as the PCT for international patents, the Madrid System for trademarks, or the Hague System for Designs, allow them to accelerate and simplify the filing and management of their rights across multiple jurisdictions while reducing costs and administrative complexities.

The MARK & LAW team is at your disposal to assist you in protecting your intellectual property rights and to answer your questions regarding national and international IP issues.