Recent Meeting Could Decide the Fate of WIPO

By Nathaniel DeLucia

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a major UN agency which focuses on international IP law.  However, after the implementation of the TRIPS (trade related aspects of intellectual property rights) more than twenty years ago, which made the World Trade Organization (WTO) the main international IP body, many have questioned WIPO’s future.  Today, WIPO’s main function, and its main source of income, is to help handle PCT applications.  PCT applications consist of standardized forms, and are the main means through which patent seekers file international applications in multiple foreign countries.

The organization has experienced several scandals over the past few years, however, and this recent meeting is looking at ways to improve the management and leadership at WIPO in order to both reduce future mistakes and increase the organizations role in the international community.

For the complete story, see IP-Watch’s article, located here.