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Science & Innovation Policy: Intellectual property

Policy Briefs

Here is a list of the latest articles

Bioprospecting: legitimate research or 'biopiracy'?

A growing number of critics of 'bioprospecting' complain that companies often fail to adequately compensate holders of traditional knowledge, and that patents on products developed in this way are actually a form of intellectual piracy.

26 May 2003 | EN | 中文

What impact do IPR rules have on food security?

An important issue raised by current debates on intellectual property rights — particularly in the context of their impact on developing countries — are the consequences that legislation protecting such rights may have for food security.

1 October 2001 | EN

IPR rules and human rights: is there a conflict?

While intellectual property rights tend to be seen as primarily and economic or legal issue, it has been increasingly argued in recent years that there is also a broader 'human rights' dimension.

1 October 2001 | EN

Are patent rules compatible with access to essential medicines?

Patents have long been a central feature of the pharmaceutical industry, but in recent years, the relationship between patents and availability of essential drugs has become highly controversial, especially in developing countries.

1 October 2001 | EN | 中文