International Developments in IP

This site will provide an ongoing summary of current IP initiatives of international organisations such as WIPO, WTO, OECD, UNESCO, WHO, the EU and the Hague Conference on Private International Law. It is designed to provide an up-to-date and concise overview for professionals, academics and students. Users can also subscribe to regular email updates.

What's New
WIPO convenes Fourth Global Congress on Combating Counterfeiting and Piracy
Importance of IP for development in least developed countries emphasised at WIPO forum
New brochure on patent issues for researchers published by the European Patent Office and the European Commission
European Commission launches sector inquiry into pharmaceuticals
Revised version of the European Patent Convention (EPC 2000) enters into force
EU joins Hague design agreement
European Commission adopts a Communication proposing a single market for online music, films and games in Europe
Interim position on open access published by the scientific council of the European Research Council
European Commission presents a new approach for funding pre-commercial R&D
European Parliament supports Commission proposal on Joint Technology Initiatives
European Commission study on technology transfer and IP regimes in Europe
European Parliament approves Proposal for a Regulation on the law applicable to contractual obligations (Rome I Regulation)
European Parliament adopts resolution calling for changes to IP law in relation to climate change
OHIM creates database of geographical indications
OHIM releases new brochure on national laws relating to the Community Trade Mark and the Community Design
New OHIM guidelines on opposition, cancellation and international marks enter into force
WHO working group progresses on global strategy on public health, innovation and IP