WIPO

Type:	Non-Profit
Founded:	1967
Headquarters:	Geneva
Country:	Switzerland
Employees:	1001-5000
Website:	wipo.int
Facebook:	WIPO Facebook
LinkedIn:	WIPO LinkedIn
Key People
Francis Gurry, Director General

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) it is a specialized United Nations agency tasked with the development of accessible and harmonious systems of Intellectual Property. It aims at rewarding creativity while stimulating unique economic developments, with a mind towards public interests.

History

The WIPO Convention was signed in 1967, although the organization did not begin proper functioning until 1970. It was established by WIPO Convention with reference from its Member States. The main objective of WIPO was to enhance the protection of IP around the globe. This is carried out by cooperation amongst all member states as well as other international organizations. In 1974, it became a part of the United Nation.In 1996, it entered into an agreement with the WTO (World Trade Organisation) thereby expanding its trade role.

Organization

The Secretariat of WIPO is based in Geneva. The Secretariat's duty is to implement decisions made by the WIPO, to administer the global IP registration systems, and to counsel WIPO members. It is also responsible for executing the plans and programs that help in achievement of WIPO’s aims. Activities and transactions of the organization are enacted by the Director together with the Member States.

Member States

WIPO currently contains 184 member states. This constitutes more than 90% of the countries around the world. Every Member State has a Secretariat who is responsible for conducting and organizing meetings and events. These Secretariats are often celebrated specialists in IP, law, economics, public policies, IT and administration.

WIPO works in collaboration with its members. The strategic route of WIPO is determined by the Member States. Meetings are carried out in committees, general assemblies, and working groups. These three wings constitute the decision making bodies of WIPO.

How to become a member state of WIPO?

A state can become a member of the WIPO by depositing an instrument of accession or ratification with the WIPO’s Director General.A state can get membership only

• If It is a member of the Berne Union for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
• Or if it is a member of the Paris Union for the Protection of Industrial Property
• Or if it is a member of the United Nations
• Or if it is a member of any of the Specialized Agencies of the United Nations
• Or if it is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency
• Or if it is a party to the Statute of the International Court of Justice
• Or if the WIPO General Assembly sends an invitation to that state to become a member state of this organization.

Stakeholders

This organization works with various stakeholders to achieve its goals. These stakeholders include non-governmental organizations, inter-governmental organizations and representatives of civil society. It also includes representatives of industry groups. The meetings are attended by more than 250 NGOs and IGOs.

WIPO Program and Budget plan

WIPO has to present a Program and Budget plan in every two years, containing performance measures, particulars of the objectives and budget planning of all the events of the organization. The document is sent to the Member States for their approval. The organization is self-financing, with a majority of funds being spent on Organization events. The remaining 10 percent is spent on revenue from the events of the contributing States. The wings of Internal Audit and Oversight Division together with an Audit Committee and External Auditor help in proper functions of WIPO. These help in smooth functions of the organization and help in carrying out the events.

External links

• WIPO

World Intellectual Property Organization