Intellectual Property Systems in the Arab Region

Intellectual property rights (IPRs) allow for the protection of inventions, innovations and creations. The protection of industrial property is essential for fostering economic growth, enhancing competitiveness and encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship. Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) are also essential for disseminating technical knowledge, while protecting inventors and innovators.  Furthermore, IPRs contribute to social and economic development and play an important role in achieving the SDGs. As such, intellectual property (IP) systems are vital for fostering innovation and should be considered seriously in the formulation and implementation of innovation policy.  

Although all Arab countries have IPR laws, the enforcement and the applications of these laws are still weak in the region. The main objective of this meeting was to discuss the status, challenges and the future of intellectual property systems in the Arab region. Topics covered included IP system management and the enforcement of IP rights. Special focus fell on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of Arab systems that could positively or negatively impact efficiency and effectiveness of the productive sectors.

The regulation of intellectual property at institutional level, whether it is at university, industry or SME level, was also be discussed, and the role of technology transfer offices in IP systems was explored.

During the meeting, selected international, regional and national cases and initiatives were presented as showcases to stimulate the sharing of experience, knowledge and lessons learned.