NGOs Are Key Stakeholders at WIPO, DG and Senior Officials Say
July 10, 2023
Director General Daren Tang and other senior officials met with members of the non-governmental organization (NGO) observer community at WIPO, underlining the important role that NGOs play in the Organization’s work.
The “WIPO-NGO Stakeholder Dialogue” brought together representatives from over 40 accredited NGOs and industry stakeholder groups. The meeting was held during the July 6-14, 2023, WIPO Assemblies.
Delivering his opening remarks, Mr. Tang underscored the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure the IP system's responsiveness in tackling pressing global issues.
"We are leveraging WIPO's technical expertise to bring IP to the grassroots and create a more inclusive IP ecosystem, in a way that is not only impactful but also connected, relatable, and visible to all. These discussions are valuable because non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are on the ground engaging with communities, beneficiaries, and a wide range of stakeholders," Mr. Tang said.
Moderating the session, Ambassador Prof. Muhammadou M.O. Kah, Permanent Representative of the Gambia to the United Nations Office in Geneva stated that the dialogue demonstrated the importance WIPO places on NGOs as valued stakeholders in the global IP system.
“This morning's gathering continues an annual tradition that began just over 10 years ago, where WIPO’s Director General meets directly with the NGO community to discuss issues of mutual interest. It reflects the reality that a multi-stakeholder effort is required to ensure that the system responds effectively and efficiently to the current global challenges we continue to face,” Ambassador Kah stated.
Assistant Director General Edward Kwakwa, whose sector oversees WIPO’s engagement with NGOs and industry groups, explained how WIPO is leveraging IP as a powerful enabler to address global challenges.
Mr. Kwakwa also provided an update on WIPO's work in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Innovation is fundamental to the way in which we address the challenges confronting the world. Intellectual property helps to create an enabling environment for innovation to take place, which plays a critical role in the achievement of the SDGs,” said Mr. Kwakwa.
Speaking on WIPO’s support to small and medium size enterprises, Assistant Director General Marco Aleman emphasized the critical role that innovative SMEs play in sustainable development and technological advancements.
“Our strategy is not only to encourage businesses and entrepreneurs to use the IP system but also to clarify how IP protection benefits enterprises in preventing unauthorized use, enhancing market position and creating IP assets. We have launched various programs aimed at supporting MSMEs in building their intellectual property strategies for sustainable business development,” Mr. Aleman said.
At present, WIPO has accredited approximately 300 NGOs and industry stakeholder groups, highlighting the organization's commitment to engaging NGOs as partners in shaping the global IP system.
During a question and answer session, NGO representatives discussed issues such as the IP gender gap, the Marrakesh Treaty implementation, the empowerment of indigenous communities, youth engagement through IP, and the intersection of IP and competition policy.