Conference Examines Copyright-related Challenges Facing Reading-Impaired Community (PR/2009/592) (Jul 13, 2009) Representatives of WIPO member states, reading-impaired organizations, publishers, and a technology consortium met on Monday, July 13, 2009 to discuss how the intellectual property system can best meet the needs of visually impaired people by improving timely access to copyright-protected content.
SCCR to Expedite Work in Favor of Reading Impaired (UPD/2009/310) (Jun 2, 2009) WIPO’s top copyright negotiating forum has agreed “to continue without delay” its work on facilitating the access of the blind, visually impaired (VIP) and other reading-disabled persons to copyright-protected works. This subject - as well as broader questions of limitations and exceptions to copyright law as they relate to libraries, archives and educational activities - is at the heart of current work of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR).
Conference calls on WIPO to Boost Support for Collective Management of Copyright and Related Rights (PR/2008/577) (Nov 26, 2008) A conference on the future evolution of collective management of copyright and related rights in Europe has called on WIPO to step up efforts to help stakeholders address the emerging challenges facing collective management. Participants urged WIPO to strengthen the copyright infrastructure so as to support creative industries and promote social, economic and cultural development.
Conference to Examine Future Development of Collective Management of Copyright and Related Rights in Europe (MA/2008/45) (Nov 19, 2008) The future evolution of collective management of copyright and related rights systems in Europe in an ever-expanding digital environment will be the focus of discussions at a conference organized by WIPO in association with the European Grouping of Societies of Authors and Composers (GESAC) and in cooperation with the Association of European Performers’ Organisations (AEPO-ARTIS), and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) on November 24-25, 2008 in Brussels.
Conference in Bali to Examine Role of Creative Industries in Asia (MA/2008/44) (Nov 14, 2008) Top government officials, representatives of the creative industries, civil society and academics will gather in Bali for a meeting organized jointly by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism on December 2 and 3, 2008 to examine the potential of the creative industries in Asia and the role intellectual property (IP) in harnessing the increasing value of this sector. Lord David Puttnam, British film producer and politician, will be the keynote speaker at the Conference. Lord Puttnam has produced award-winning films such as Chariots of Fire and Midnight Express.
Member States Review Key Copyright Issues (PR/2008/575) (Nov 10, 2008) WIPO member states meeting under the auspices of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights met from November 3 to 7 November 2008 to review a number of key copyright issues. Under the chairmanship of Mr. Jukka Liedes of Finland, the SCCR examined the current state of play WIPO’s work on limitations and exceptions, the protection of audiovisual performances and the protection of broadcasting organizations. Discussions also featured the question of access to copyright-protected content by visually impaired persons.
China Extends Application of “Internet Treaties” to Hong Kong SAR (PR/2008/565) (Sep 26, 2008) As of October 1, 2008, the terms of two key international copyright treaties will extend to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). The Government of the People’s Republic of China has notified the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) that it has extended application of the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and the WIPO Phonograms and Performances Treaty (WPPT) – known as the “Internet Treaties” - to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. These treaties which entered into force in 2002 bring the international system of copyright and related rights more in line with the challenges of the digital age.
WIPO and SERCI Examine Economic Aspects of Copyright (PR/2008/559) (Jul 11, 2008) A meeting jointly organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the Society for Economic Research on Copyright Issues (SERCI) in Geneva on 10 and 11 July, 2008 examined the economic importance of copyright and underlined the need for further research on the role of copyright in the creative industries.
WIPO Workshop to Probe Copyright Issues Arising from the Preservation of Digital Content (MA/2008/41) (Jul 8, 2008) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in cooperation with the International Digital Preservation and Copyright initiative (IDPC) is organizing a one-day workshop on July 15, at WIPO’s Geneva headquarters, to survey recent developments and trends at the intersection of digital preservation and copyright. The aim of the workshop is to contribute to the debate on how to develop and improve policies and practices that support the digital preservation of copyright-protected content.
Member States Consider Future Work of Copyright Committee (PR/2008/541) (Mar 13, 2008) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) agreed this week on elements of a program of work for the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR). Meeting from March 10-12, 2008, the SCCR decided that it would continue to address issues such as the protection of broadcasting organizations and the protection of audiovisual performances, as well as exceptions and limitations.
Global Anti Counterfeiting and Piracy Congress to Meet in Dubai (MA/2008/38) (Jan 28, 2008) The Fourth Global Congress on Combating Counterfeiting and Piracy will meet in Dubai from February 3-5, 2008 under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Dubai. Senior officials from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and representatives of other international intergovernmental organizations, governments, regional and national enforcement agencies and business will attend the Congress to identify solutions to the escalating problems of counterfeiting and piracy. This is the first time the Global Congress is being held outside Europe.
International Conference Underlines Role of IP in the Creative Industries (PR/2007/527) (Oct 31, 2007) Participants at an international conference on the role of intellectual property (IP) in the creative industries, held at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on October 29-30, 2007, concluded with agreement that intellectual property (IP) is an essential element in harnessing the value and securing sustained development in the creative industries. Participants, which included ministers, high level policy makers, industry representatives and leading musicians, artists, academic and civil society representatives, further underlined the need to promote better understanding of the role and impact of IP on this dynamic sector which supports cultural identity and significantly contributes to economic development and wealth creation.
High Level International Conference Addresses Role of IP in the Creative Industries (PR/2007/526) (Oct 29, 2007) Government ministers, high level policy makers, industry representatives and leading musicians, artists, academia, and civil society representatives from across the globe underlined the critical importance of the creative sector in promoting cultural identity and in boosting economic development and wealth creation at a high-level conference on the role of intellectual property (IP) in the creative industries which opened at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on October 29, 2007. The two-day conference is a unique platform for stakeholders to exchange views on the role of IP in the dynamic creative industries sector.
WIPO to Host International Conference on IP and the Creative Industries (MA/2007/34) (Oct 9, 2007) The World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) is organizing on October 29 and 30, 2007 at its Geneva headquarters an International Conference on Intellectual Property and the Creative Industries. In a high-level segment on October 29, senior government officials responsible for cultural affairs and intellectual property (IP) will reflect on creativity and its expression within different cultural contexts and policy environments. Throughout the conference, creative artists, academics and creative business representatives will speak on the creative process, factors that underpin the success of creative industries, the sector’s significance in contributing to economic and cultural development, and strategies to stimulate and promote creative activities in diverse settings.
Conference Examines Opportunities and Challenges to Collective Management of Copyright and Related Rights in North America (MA/2007/32) (Sep 10, 2007) Questions such as how authors, composers and artists receive payment for use of their work in the digital economy and new opportunities for managing creators’ rights electronically will be the focus of discussions at a conference organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) from October 17 to 19, 2007, at the Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America. Key issues such as the impact of new services and business models – file-sharing, pod casting, streaming and Internet video services – future technological trends, licensing techniques, fee structures and distribution and measures to combat illegal downloading, will all be addressed by participants at the Conference on Collective Management of Copyright and Related Rights in North America, which is open to the public.
WIPO Seminar to Address Digital Rights Management Technologies (MA/2007/30) (Aug 27, 2007) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is hosting a Seminar on Rights Management Information at its Geneva headquarters on September 17, 2007. Rights management information (RMI) consists of metadata used to identify digital content and owners of rights, and to express licensing information in digital form. The seminar will explore the relevance of RMI, survey emerging technologies and standards, and identify challenges affecting copyright owners, Internet users and intermediaries such as search engines. The seminar will also address crucial questions such as ownership, licensing and management of IP as well as the tools used to manage creative content and identify users and owners.
WIPO Publishes a Guide on Managing IP for Museums (PR/2007/505) (Jul 31, 2007) Museums, and the broader cultural heritage community, now have access to a new guide, commissioned by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to help them use the intellectual property (IP) system to improve the management of their collections in the digital environment.
Seminar Examines Opportunities and Challenges of Legitimate Distribution of Copyright Works Online in Asia-Pacific Region (MA/2007/29) (Jul 6, 2007) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is hosting a seminar on "Legitimate Distribution of Copyright Works Online" in Singapore on July 10, 2007 – in cooperation with the Intellectual Property Office, and the Intellectual Property Academy of Singapore. Key players in online copyright businesses - lawyers, academics, businesspersons and policy-makers in the Asia-Pacific region - will shed light on this rapidly changing field. The progam is available at http://www.wipo.int/copyright/en/ldcw.html.
Negotiators Decide to Continue Discussions on Updating Protection of Broadcasting Organizations (PR/2007/498) (Jun 25, 2007) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have decided that further discussions were required on various aspects of a treaty on the protection of broadcasting organizations before moving to a diplomatic conference. The decision came at the conclusion of the second special session of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) from June 18 to 22, 2007 which had been mandated by the WIPO General Assembly in October 2006.
WIPO Director General Pledges Continued Support to Bulgaria (PR/2007/485) (Mar 29, 2007) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, met on March 28, 2007 with senior Bulgarian officials to discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations, in particular in the field of copyright.
Director General Opens High Level International Conference in Cairo on Copyright and Development, Receives Award for Outstanding Contribution to the World of Publishing (UPD/2007/285) (Jan 30, 2007) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, delivered a keynote statement at an international conference on copyright and development,opened by Egypt's First Lady, H.E Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak, in Cairo,on Saturday, January 27, 2007, and emphasized the importance of intellectual property as a tool for economic, social and cultural development. During a separate meeting with the First Lady, Dr. Idris thanked Mrs. Mubarak for her leadership in supporting projects to highlight the importance of the copyright sector in national economic, social and cultural development processes.
Negotiators Narrow Focus in Talks on a Broadcasting Treaty (PR/2007/473) (Jan 22, 2007) A key committee of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), acting on a mandate from the WIPO General Assembly, pushed ahead with negotiations on a treaty to update the protection of broadcasting organizations on a signal-based approach. The talks took place in the first of two special sessions of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) from January 17-19, 2007.
WIPO Publishes Guide on Copyright and Related Rights for Business (WIPO/UPD/2006/282) (Dec 11, 2006) Entrepreneurs, managers and staff of SMEs can now consult a WIPO publication that explains how copyright and related rights can be used to further strategic business goals.
General Assembly Approves Convening of Diplomatic Conference on the Protection of Broadcasting Organizations (WIPO/PR/2006/460) (Oct 2, 2006) In a move that signals entry into the final phase of treaty negotiations, the General Assembly of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) agreed today to convene a diplomatic conference from November 19 to December 7, 2007 to update the rights of broadcasting organizations. The objective of this diplomatic conference is to conclude a treaty on the protection of broadcasting organizations, including cablecasting organizations.
Negotiations on The Protection of Broadcasting Organizations Enters Final Phase (WIPO/PR/2006/454) (Sep 13, 2006) A key committee of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), agreed today to convene a diplomatic conference from July 11 to August 1, 2007 to update the rights of broadcasting organizations. This recommendation is to be endorsed by the WIPO General Assembly when it meets later this month. The objective of this diplomatic conference, the last phase of treaty negotiations, is to conclude a treaty on the protection of broadcasting organizations, including cablecasting organizations.
Barcelona Seminar to Discuss Broadcasting Issues (WIPO/MA/2006/23) (Jun 13, 2006) International experts, business leaders, academics, government delegates and policy makers will come together on June 21, 2006, in Barcelona, under the auspices of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Catalan Broadcasting Council and the Barcelona Bar Association, to examine current technical, economic and legal realities in the field of broadcasting and identify areas for development.
Momentum Grows to Update Broadcaster's Rights (WIPO/PR/2005/431) (Nov 24, 2005) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) advanced its work towards development of a treaty to update intellectual property (IP) standards for broadcasters in the digital age, at a meeting of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) in Geneva from November 21 to 23, 2005. Mr. Jukka Liedes of Finland, Chairman of the SCCR highlighted the "high quality debates ... now higher than ever" and said that "there is today a much greater understanding of the concepts and issues contained in a second Revised Consolidated Text of treaty proposals.
WIPO Member States Consider how to Facilitate Access to Educational Materials (WIPO/PR/2005/430) (Nov 22, 2005) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) examined on Monday, the impact of the copyright system on the use of protected works for educational purposes in both the analog and digital environments, particularly in developing countries. The meeting took place at the beginning of deliberations by the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) which is being held in Geneva from November 21 to 23, 2005.
Member States Agree to Continue Discussions on Development (WIPO/PR/2005/425) (Oct 4, 2005) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), agreed today to continue efforts to enhance the development dimension in all of the Organization's work and to build on the results of a process launched last autumn. The WIPO General Assembly, meeting in Geneva from September 26 to October 5, 2005, agreed to establish a provisional committee to accelerate and complete discussions on proposals relating to a WIPO development agenda.
General Assembly Decides to Accelerate Work on the Protection of Broadcasting Organizations (WIPO/PR/2005/424) (Oct 3, 2005) The General Assembly of the World Intellectual Property Organization, meeting in Geneva from September 26 to October 5, 2005, agreed on Monday to accelerate its work relating to the protection of broadcasting organizations to update international intellectual property (IP) standards for broadcasting in the information age with a view to adopting an international treaty by 2007. Member states agreed to hold two further meetings of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights, which is overseeing the negotiations. This would pave the way for the General Assembly in autumn 2006 to recommend the convening of a diplomatic conference to conclude a treaty.
WIPO Launches Opportunity for Stakeholders to Participate in IP Policy Debate (WIPO/PR/2005/408) (May 30, 2005) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) will host an online forum on Intellectual Property in the Information Society - from June 1 to 15, 2005 - at http://www.wipo.int/ipisforum/. The forum will provide a unique opportunity for all to contribute to the emerging debate on the value of intellectual property in the information society.
WIPO Urges Youth to "Think, Imagine, Create" on Occasion of World Intellectual Property Day (WIPO/PR/2005/405) (Apr 25, 2005) Marking the fifth World Intellectual Property Day on April 26, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, urged better understanding of the link between human creativity and intellectual property in daily life. The Director General released the following statement on the occasion of World Intellectual Property Day
WIPO to Host International Symposium on Intellectual Property Education and Research (WIPO/MA/2005/19) (Apr 25, 2005) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) will host an international symposium on intellectual property (IP) education and research on June 30 and July 1, 2005. The event will bring together academics, education policy makers, and business managers responsible for company IP education, as well as IP professionals, students, and representatives of national, regional and international organizations who are interested in the area of IP education and research. The main focus of the symposium will be to explore ways to better integrate IP into education and research programs.
WIPO To Host Seminar on Internet Intermediaries (WIPO/MA/2005/17) (Mar 23, 2005) The management of intellectual property in the online environment raises significant opportunities as well as challenges. On April 18, 2005, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) will host a seminar that brings together international experts and business leaders, academics, government delegates, civil society and policy makers to discuss issues relating to copyright liability of those who act as online intermediaries.
SCCR Accelerates Work on the Protection of Broadcasting Organizations (WIPO/PR/2004/400) (Nov 22, 2004) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) advanced towards development of a treaty to update intellectual property standards for broadcasters in the digital age, at a meeting of the twelfth session of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) in Geneva from November 17 to 19, 2004. Delegates made substantial progress in narrowing differences on key issues contained in a Revised Consolidated Text of treaty proposals and member states called for accelerated progress towards conclusion of the Treaty.
WIPO Member states Make Significant Headway in Talks on Broadcasters' Rights (WIPO/PR/2004/386) (Jun 10, 2004) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) made significant progress towards updating international intellectual property standards for broadcasting in the information age. The Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR), which met in Geneva from June 7 to 9, 2004, recommended that the WIPO General Assembly, the Organization's top decision-making body, consider convening a diplomatic conference on the protection of broadcasting organizations.
WIPO and MPA Discuss Value of Copyright Industries and Effective Enforcement of IP Rights (WIPO/UPD/2004/220) (Feb 12, 2004) The economic and cultural value of copyright industries and the need to stem digital piracy around the world were the focus of discussions between Dr. Kamil Idris, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Mr. Jack Valenti, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), at WIPO's Geneva headquarters on Tuesday, February 10, 2004. Dr. Idris and Mr. Valenti, a key figure in the fight against intellectual property theft, also stressed the importance of effective enforcement measures to ensure the growth of cultural industries.
WIPO Member States Make Progress on Key Copyright Issues (WIPO/PR/2003/367) (Nov 7, 2003) Member states attending the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) made progress this week in talks to update international standards on the protection of broadcasting organizations, bringing them in line with the realities of the information age.
Meeting Focuses on Access to Digital Content by the Visually Impaired (WIPO/PR/2003/366) (Nov 4, 2003) A meeting held at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva on November 3, 2003 focused on how the visually impaired can access copyrighted materials in the on-line world in a legally-acceptable way. The meeting reviewed the current situation regarding the provision of copyrighted works to visually impaired people, and considered the technical, economic and legal aspects of ensuring access by the blind and partially sighted to written works in the on-line environment.
WIPO Member States Make Headway in Shoring up Protection for Broadcasting Organizations (WIPO/UPD/2003/200) (Jun 30, 2003) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) had useful discussions and made progress in identifying the scope of the rights to be granted to broadcasting organizations in a multilateral treaty which would, if adopted, update international regulations in this area bringing them in line with the realities of the information age.
WIPO and Spain Sign MOU to Boost Copyright (WIPO/PR/2003/339) (Feb 26, 2003) The growing economic and cultural importance of copyright industries was the focus of discussions between the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris and the Spanish Vice-Minister for Education, Culture and Sport, Mr. Mariano Zabía Lasala, on Tuesday, February 25, 2003. The meeting concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Director General and the Vice Minister.
Movement in Discussions on Protection for Broadcasting Organizations (WIPO/UPD/2002/178) (Nov 13, 2002) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) inched closer to agreement on the nature of the rights to be granted to broadcasting organizations in a multilateral treaty which would, if adopted, update international regulations in this area bringing them in line with the technological demands of the digital era.
2002 Session of WIPO Assemblies Conclude (WIPO/PR/2002/329) (Oct 1, 2002) The Assemblies of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) concluded on Tuesday following a review of activities over the past year and setting the agenda of the Organization for the next year.
Member States Keep up Momentum for Performer's Rights (WIPO/PR/2002/327) (Sep 27, 2002) An ad hoc informal meeting to resolve outstanding issues relating to the protection of performers in their audiovisual performances is expected to be held in the first half of 2003.
SCCR Explores Better Protection for BroadcastingOrganizations (WIPO/UPD/2002/165) (May 21, 2002) Measures to update the rights of broadcasting organizations, along with the question of protection for non-original databases, topped the agenda of a meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organization's (WIPO) Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR). The talks were intensive, fruitful and characterized by an open dialogue between various stakeholders, including policy-makers, representatives of broadcasting organizations, and related industries, such as music and films.
WPPT enters into force (WIPO/PR/2002/313) (May 20, 2002) "The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Phonograms and Performances Treaty (WPPT), one of two key treaties that adapt copyright law to the digital age, entered into force on May 20, 2002. The first of these so-called "Internet treaties", the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT), entered into force on March 6, 2002. The treaties set out the legal framework to safeguard the interests of creators in cyberspace and open new horizons for composers, artists, writers and others to use the Internet with confidence to create, distribute and control the use of their works within the digital environment."
WCT Enters into force (WIPO/PR/2002/304) (Mar 6, 2002) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Copyright Treaty (WCT), one of two key treaties that will bring copyright law in line with the digital age, entered into force on March 6, 2002.
30th Accession Paves Way for Entry into Force of WPPT in May 2002 (WIPO/PR/2002/302) (Feb 21, 2002) Honduras on February 20, 2002 became the 30th country to join the WIPO Phonograms and Performances Treaty (WPPT), paving the way for its entry into force on May 20, 2002.
2002 Marks Turning Point in International Copyright Law (WIPO/UPD/2002/183) (Jan 20, 2002) The entry into force of the the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and the WIPO Phonograms and Performances Treaty (WPPT) in 2002 marked a milestone in the history of copyright law.
30th Accession to Key Copyright Treaty Paves Way for Entry Into Force (WIPO/PR/2001/300) (Dec 6, 2001) Gabon's accession on December 6, 2001 to the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) paves the way for entry into force of this key treaty that will bring copyright law in line with the digital age, a move welcomed by the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris.
WIPO Director General Receives Delegation of Mexican Performers (WIPO/UPD/2001/150) (Dec 3, 2001) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, met on November 30, 2001 with representatives of Mexico's National Association of Performers (ANDI) and government officials for an exchange of views on enhancing copyright protection and promoting the rights of creators in Mexico. The delegation also awarded Dr. Idris with the "Dolores del Río" medal in recognition of his efforts to defend the rights of performers.
Conference Addresses Evolving Nature of Digital Landscape (WIPO/PR/2001/285) (Sep 19, 2001) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, opened the Organization's Second International Conference on Electronic Commerce and Intellectual Property by noting the evolving nature of the digital environment.
Rights of Broadcasters Top Agenda of SCCR (WIPO/UPD/2001/131) (May 11, 2001) In light of a growing piracy problem in many parts of the world, protection of the rights of broadcasting organizations topped the agenda of the fifth session of the World Intellectual Property Organization's (WIPO) Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR), from May 7 to 11, 2001. Delegates reiterated their commitment to strengthen existing protection in view of transmissions using new technologies, including the Internet, cable and satellite television.
WIPO Forum on Private International Lawand Intellectual Property (WIPO/UPD/2001/120) (Feb 2, 2001) Leading experts attending a meeting in Geneva organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) agreed that intellectual property rights pose special challenges for private international lawyers handling cross-border disputes. The successful resolution of these questions often calls for solutions that are tailored to specific intellectual property rights, such as patents, trademarks and copyright. Some 200 participants attending the WIPO Forum on Private International Law and Intellectual Property on January 30 and 31, 2000 discussed the intellectual property implications of the global reach of the Internet and the rapid growth of electronic commerce, particularly, in relation to the jurisdiction of courts, applicable law and enforcement of judgements.
Performers Rights Take Centre Stage at WIPO (WIPO/PR/2000/249) (Dec 7, 2000) As the curtain lifted on the final leg of international negotiations to conclude a treaty to safeguard the rights of performers against unauthorized use of their work in audiovisual media, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, wished delegates success in their deliberations. Opening the Diplomatic Conference on the Protection of Audiovisual Performances, which is taking place in Geneva from December 7 to 20, the Director General said adoption of this international instrument would represent a milestone in creating a comprehensive system of copyright and related rights protection that is adapted to the challenges and opportunities of digital and networked technologies.
Negotiators Meet to Finalize Pact on Performers Rights (WIPO/PR/2000/248) (Nov 27, 2000) Talks to conclude a multilateral agreement that will facilitate the international exchange of films and television programs by harmonizing national laws governing the rights of performers in their audiovisual work will be held in Geneva from December 7 to 20, 2000. The Diplomatic Conference on the Protection of Audiovisual Performances is expected to finalize an international instrument to safeguard the rights of performers against the unauthorized use of their performances in audiovisual media, such as television, film and video.
WIPO Director General Urges EU to Speed up Ratification of Internet Treaties (WIPO/UPD/2000/117) (Nov 24, 2000) In high level meetings at the European Commission (EC) in Brussels, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, urged the 15-nation bloc to speed up ratification of the so-called "Internet Treaties" - agreements that adapt the international system of copyright and related rights to the digital age. Dr. Idris held on November 23, 2000 a series of constructive and wide-ranging talks with the President of the European Commission Mr. Romano Prodi and Commissioner Mr. Frits Bolkestein. The discussions reflected the positive spirit of collaboration between the EC and WIPO on intellectual property in the face of growing challenges posed by globalization, the rapidly changing digital economy and cutting-edge technologies.
Member States Address Enforcement (WIPO/UPD/2000/112) (Oct 26, 2000) At the first meeting of a new committee on enforcement on October 19 and 20, 2000, member states asked the secretariat of the World Intellectual Property Organization to initiate a series of studies aimed at promoting more effective enforcement of industrial property rights all over the world. The representatives from the 57 member states and several intergovernmental and non-governmental international organizations in attendance also agreed on a general framework for future talks in the area of enforcement.
WIPO Hosts Interactive Exhibition on Music in the Digital Age (WIPO/PR/2000/239) (Sep 21, 2000) A new exhibition at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on the theme "Music in the Digital Age" will be inaugurated on Monday, September 25. The exhibition will look at how digital technologies and the Internet are transforming the process of creating, distributing, storing and accessing music in today's on-line world.
WIPO Renews Support for Festival de la Bâtie (WIPO/PR/2000/225) (Jun 13, 2000) For the second year running, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is supporting a major local arts and cultural festival, the Festival de la Bâtie, as a sign of the Organization's commitment to promoting and encouraging the creative arts, as well as artists and performers.
December 2000 Diplomatic Conference to Address Rights in Audiovisual Performances (WIPO/PR/2000/217) (Apr 14, 2000) Member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have endorsed the convening of a Diplomatic Conference from December 7 to 20, 2000 to establish an international agreement on the rights of performers in their audiovisual performances.
Standing Committee on Copyright and RelatedRights Holds 3rd Session (WIPO/UPD/1999/76) (Nov 23, 1999) Representatives from some 80 member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) met from November 16 to 20, 1999 to discuss issues relating to copyright and related rights. At this third session of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR), delegates looked at three issues in particular, namely, the protection of audiovisual performances, protection of databases and protection of the rights of broadcasting organizations. Nine intergovernmental and 44 non-governmental organizations also participated in the discussions.
WIPO Welcomes New Ratifications of "Internet Treaties" (WIPO/PR/1999/199) (Nov 19, 1999) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, welcomed the ratification on Friday by Argentina and Slovenia of two WIPO treaties which establish basic standards of protection for copyright and related rights on the Internet and other digital networks, the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT).
WIPO to Present its "Digital Agenda" to Member States (WIPO/PR/1999/186) (Oct 31, 1999) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) will submit to its member States the "Digital Agenda" it drafted following a three-day meeting in Geneva from September 14 to 16, 1999 that brought together some 700 high-level representatives from government, industry and other interested parties.
WIPO Outlines "Digital Agenda" (WIPO/PR/1999/185) (Oct 31, 1999) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, wrapped up the International Conference on Electronic Commerce and Intellectual Property on Thursday by presenting a ten-point plan that sets out a Digital Agenda for WIPO.
WIPO Director General Opens (WIPO/PR/1999/184) (Sep 14, 1999) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, opened on Tuesday the International Conference on Electronic Commerce and Intellectual Property, which will take place from September 14 to 16, 1999, before an audience of some 700 participants from industry, government, interest groups and the media.
WIPO Welcomes U.S. Ratification of "Internet" Treaties (WIPO/PR/1999/183) (Sep 14, 1999) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, welcomed on Tuesday the ratification by the United States of America of two WIPO treaties which establish the basic standards of protection for copyright and related rights on the Internet and other digital networks, the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT).
International Conference to Explore Cutting Edge E-Commerce Issues (WIPO/PR/1999/181) (Sep 10, 1999) The multi-billion dollar electronic commerce industry will be the focus of attention of some 700 delegates at a major international conference in Geneva from 14 to 16 September 1999. The International Conference on Electronic Commerce and Intellectual Property, hosted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), will for the first time at an international level address the global implications of electronic commerce, with a focus on intellectual property.
WIPO Director General Takes Part in Celebrations Marking Centenary of Japan's Copyright Law (WIPO/UPD/1999/67) (Jul 26, 1999) The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Dr. Kamil Idris, participated in celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Japan's Copyright Law on July 22, 1999. This historic event was marked by a commemorative ceremony, which took place in the presence of His Majesty Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan.
WIPO Supports Festival de la Bâtie (WIPO/PR/1999/173) (Jun 3, 1999) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), is supporting a major local arts and cultural festival, the Festival de la Bâtie, as a sign of the Organization's commitment to promoting and encouraging the creative arts, as well as artists and performers. The partnership also serves to reinforce the importance that the Director General of WIPO, Dr. Kamil Idris, attaches to reinforcing links with the local population, who stand to benefit most from the cultural enrichment and entertainment provided by arts festivals such as the Festival de la Bâtie.
New Contracting Parties to WIPO-administeredTreaties in 1998 (WIPO/UPD/1999/47) (Jan 29, 1999) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) administers twenty-one (21) treaties in the field of intellectual property, fifteen (15) of which are in the field of industrial property and six (6) in copyright. WIPO administers some twenty-one (21) treaties in the field of intellectual property. During 1998, eighty-six (86) instruments of accession to or ratification of treaties administered by WIPO were deposited with the Director General of WIPO. In 1997, sixty (60) such instruments were deposited with the Director General. The continuing adherence to WIPO-administered treaties reflects growing recognition of the importance of intellectual property rights in an era of increased globalization.
1998 Review of the WIPO-WTO Joint Intiative on TRIPS Implementation (WIPO/PR/1998/148) (Dec 11, 1998) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) launched a joint initiative earlier this year to assist the developing countries to meet the January 1, 2000 deadline for implementation of the TRIPS Agreement. The Directors General of the two Organizations, Dr. Kamil Idris of WIPO and Mr. Renato Ruggiero of WTO, sent joint communications on July 21, 1998, to the Ministers responsible for WIPO and WTO in each of the developing countries concerned. The communication underscored the two Organizations' commitment to help developing countries bring their laws on patents, trademarks, copyright and other areas of intellectual property into line with the TRIPS Agreement, as well as provide for effective enforcement of these laws.
Copyright Discussions at WIPO (WIPO/PR/1998/145) (Oct 30, 1998) The World Intellectual Property Organization will be holding for the first time a session of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights in Geneva from November 2 to 10, 1998.
WTO and WIPO Join Forces to Help Developing Countries Meet Year-2000 Commitments on Intellectual Property (WIPO/PR/1998/131) (Jul 21, 1998) The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) have agreed on a joint initiative to provide technical cooperation for developing countries. The purpose is to help developing countries which are members of the WTO meet the January 1, 2000 deadline-less than a year and a half away-for conforming with the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). This process involves bringing their laws on copyright, patents, trademarks and other areas of intellectual property into line with the agreement, and providing for effective enforcement of these laws in order to deal with piracy, counterfeit goods and other forms of intellectual property infringements.
