IFIA’s Representation at the Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO

The Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO took place from 6~14 July 2023 at WIPO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The meetings brought together representatives from WIPO member states, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to discuss intellectual property-related matters.

IFIA, a globally recognized organization representing inventors’ associations, participated in the meetings as observers on behalf of its members. The delegation comprised two representatives, Mr. Kamyar Faramarzi (IFIA Event Director) and Mrs. Parastoo Bakhtiari Bahrami (member of IFIA’s President Executive office).

IFIA’s participation in the meetings aimed to:
a) Advocate for the interests of inventors and innovators worldwide.
b) Promote the importance of intellectual property protection and its role in fostering innovation.
c) Facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among inventors’ associations and WIPO member states.
d) Stay informed about the latest intellectual property policies and regulations developments.

During the Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings, IFIA actively engaged in various activities, including:
a) Attending Plenary Sessions: IFIA representatives attended plenary sessions where essential policy discussions and decisions were made. They actively listened to interventions from member states, intergovernmental organizations, and other stakeholders.
b) Participating in Side Events: IFIA representatives actively participated in side events organized by WIPO and other organizations. These events covered innovation, patent protection, technology transfer, and capacity building.

c) Delivering Statements: IFIA delivered statements during relevant agenda items to express its views and recommendations on inventors’ rights, intellectual property protection, and innovation. These statements emphasized the significance of supporting inventors and promoting a favorable environment for their contributions.

d) Engaging in Bilateral Meetings: IFIA representatives engaged in bilateral meetings with WIPO officials, member state representatives, and other organizations. These meetings aimed to strengthen cooperation, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.

IFIA’s participation at the Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings allowed for several key observations:
a) Growing Importance of Inventors: The meetings highlighted the increasing recognition of inventors as critical drivers of innovation and economic growth. Member states and organizations acknowledged the need to support inventors and provide adequate protection and incentives.
b) Need for Enhanced Collaboration: The importance of collaboration between inventors’ associations, WIPO, and member states was emphasized. Cooperation in capacity building, technology transfer, and IP protection was recognized as crucial for fostering innovation.
c) Emerging Technologies: Discussions on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and biotechnology, underscored the need for adaptable intellectual property frameworks to address new challenges and opportunities.
d) Youth Innovation: The meetings recognized the importance of nurturing youth innovation and promoting entrepreneurship among young inventors. Initiatives aimed at encouraging youth participation in invention activities were highlighted.

IFIA’s representation at the Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO as observers proved valuable in advocating for inventors’ interests and contributing to intellectual property-related discussions. IFIA’s active engagement, delivery of statements, and participation in side events demonstrated its commitment to fostering innovation and protecting inventors’ rights. The key observations made during the meetings will inform IFIA’s future initiatives and collaborations in promoting inventors’ interests globally.