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ESIC and WIPO Unveil IGET: A Landmark Dispute Resolution Body for the Global Video Games and Esports Industries

The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) and the World Intellectual Property Organization Arbitration and Mediation Center (WIPO AMC) are proud to announce the launch of the International Games and Esports Tribunal (IGET), a groundbreaking not-for-profit dispute resolution body designed to meet the unique needs of the global video games and esports industries.

IGET represents a pioneering effort to provide tailored, professional, and accessible Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services for stakeholders in gaming and esports. Its innovative platform addresses the broad scope of disputes that arise in these fast-evolving sectors, ranging from anti-doping violations and player disciplinary matters to intellectual property (IP) conflicts and contractual disagreements.

The collaboration will focus on several key areas, including joint awareness-raising activities, identifying and training specialized neutral dispute resolution experts for video games and esports disputes, and more. Both organizations will share their knowledge and expertise in their respective fields to support and guide the collaboration with the aim of optimizing the efficiency and just resolution of esports and video games disputes.

A Game-Changing Approach to Dispute Resolution

Traditional legal frameworks often fail to accommodate the complexity, pace, and global nature of disputes within gaming and esports. IGET fills this critical gap with:

  • Specialized Expertise: IGET’s panel consists of arbitrators and mediators with in-depth knowledge of esports, video games, and IP. This ensures disputes are resolved by professionals who understand the industry’s nuances and challenges.
  • Global Accessibility: With a fully international approach, IGET enables parties from anywhere in the world to resolve disputes seamlessly and efficiently, regardless of jurisdiction.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: IGET addresses a wide range of dispute types, from integrity-related matters like match-fixing and cheating to a wide range of commercial disputes including but not limited to IP disputes, player contracts, sponsorship agreements, and beyond.
  • Efficient Procedures: IGET’s bespoke ADR processes are designed for swift, effective resolutions, minimizing disruption to the industry’s fast-moving ecosystem.
With the establishment of IGET, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) will immediately transition the functions of its Independent Appeals Panel to IGET, making IGET the exclusive jurisdiction for all ESIC appeals.

Stephen Hanna, CEO of ESIC, commented on the launch:

“The launch of IGET is a significant and important milestone for the global video games and esports industries. By combining ESIC’s expertise in maintaining integrity with WIPO’s authority in intellectual property dispute resolution, this initiative will ensure that disputes are handled professionally and swiftly, maintaining the integrity that underpins these industries’ growth and credibility. IGET is a critical step towards fostering trust, professionalism, and fairness across our industries."

Marco M. Alemán, Assistant Director General of WIPO’s IP and Innovation Ecosystems Sector, added:

At WIPO, we understand the increasing relevance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in evolving sectors such as video games and esports. Our partnership with ESIC to establish IGET highlights our dedication to providing the essential infrastructure for impartial and effective dispute resolution within the esports and video gaming communities.”

To support stakeholders in understanding IGET’s services and processes, a series of public webinar information sessions will soon be made available. These sessions will provide an overview of IGET’s dispute resolution offerings, the steps involved in bringing a matter to the tribunal, and guidance on how to incorporate the IGET model clause into agreements. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights directly from IGET representatives. Details on upcoming webinars, including dates and registration information, will be published on our website at www.iget.gg.

For more information about IGET’s services, including detailed guidance on accessing the tribunal and incorporating IGET’s model clause into agreements, please visit IGET’s website at www.iget.gg

About the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC)

ESIC serves as the global guardian of integrity in esports, working to prevent, investigate, and resolve issues such as cheating, match-fixing, and doping. Through collaboration with game publishers, tournament organizers, and industry stakeholders, ESIC promotes fair play, youth protection, and investment in a safe, credible esports ecosystem.

About WIPO and the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) serves as the global forum for IP services, policy, information, and cooperation. It operates as a self-funding agency of the United Nations, boasting 193 member states. Its mission is to lead the development of a balanced and effective international IP system that enables innovation and creativity for the benefit of all. The WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center (WIPO AMC) offers ADR options, such as mediation and arbitration, to enable private parties to efficiently settle their domestic or cross-border commercial disputes. The WIPO AMC is international and specialized in IP and technology disputes.