Intellectual property (IP) law, as we know it, has been shaped by technology evolutions over the last century, and today’s tech innovations seem to have a higher disruptive effect on traditional IP legal concepts. Think artificial intelligence algorithms, data science, connected objects, or even life science new techs. Is our IP legal system outdated? How should we, as lawyers, address today’s legal challenges related to innovation? What evolutions should we reasonably foresee, in terms of legal doctrines as well as governance and policy perspectives? And in that context, what will be the role of the IP offices of tomorrow?

In this episode of Brand & New, we ask Francis Gurry, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to look to the future. Mr. Gurry has led WIPO since October 1, 2008. Under his leadership, the organization has addressed major challenges, including managing the stress on the international patent and copyright systems produced by rapid technological change, globalization, and increased demand; and ensuring that the IP system serves its fundamental purpose of encouraging creativity and innovation in all countries.

Related Resources

To go further:
About Francis Gurry
About WIPO

Also of interest: 
WIPO: Artificial Intelligence and intellectual Property

WIPO World Intellectual Property Report 2019: The Geography of Innovation: Local Hotspots, Global Networks

MIT Technology Review: It’s time for a Bill of Data Rights