Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean - Global Intellectual Property Issues

The global integration and the expanding relevance of intellectual property into new areas increase the pressure on many developing countries. The debate about what constitutes IP and where traditional knowledge, the expression of folklore and biological diversity falls within the definition plagues many developing countries. Many nations must balance the giving access to their resources against the need to protect those resources that belong to their nation and people, at the same time deriving some economic benefit, where possible. The Bureau, with the assistance of the TK unit, conducts seminars, workshops, provide information and engages in awareness building to ensure that governments and their citizens are aware of all aspects of the issue. For those governments seeking to protect their "heritage" assistance and guidance can be given help determine the best approach for that country.