2024 WIPO Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge

Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) agreed to the last phase of negotiations on a proposed treaty on intellectual property, genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge, which takes the format of a diplomatic conference at the organization's headquarters in Geneva from May 13-24, 2024.

Genetic resources include medicinal plants, agricultural crops and animal breeds. Genetic resources are not subject to protection as intellectual property objects, but inventions based on them may be protected as a patent.

Moreover, certain genetic resources are linked to traditional knowledge by virtue of their use and conservation by different peoples, often over many generations. This knowledge is in some cases used in scientific research and may help in the development of a protected invention.

«The decision to convene the diplomatic conference was not only a breakthrough in the complex negotiations that had been underway at WIPO for more than two decades, but a victory for multilateralism. In this spirit of progress, collaboration, and energy, I look forward to WIPO’s member states moving together as one community towards a successful outcome this year», – notes WIPO Director General Daren Tang.

Based on WIPO materials

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Photo: wipo.int/