The "state of the debate" on traditional knowledge

The "state of the debate" on traditional knowledge

Current systems and thinking on traditonal knowledge protection

This document summarizes the current "state of the debate" in major intergovernmental forums dealing with traditional knowledge (TK) and access to genetic resources and benefit sharing. It was prepared as a background note to the Seminar on "Systems for the Protection and Commercialisation of Traditional knowledge, in particular traditional medicines" organised jointly by UNCTAD and the Indian Government.

Information is provided on:

  • The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
  • The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
  • The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
  • The World Trade Organization
  • The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
  • The World Health Organization (WHO)
  • The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

Other papers from the seminar are also available from the same web address.

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