Genetic resources (GR) and the associated traditional knowledge (ATK) of indigenous peoples and local communities are important components of biodiversity. They can serve as a starting point for innovations in different areas. For example, traditional knowledge about the healing properties of a particular plant can facilitate the research and development of new medicinal substances. GR/ATK also play an important role in the fields of cosmetics, agriculture and food, as well as in biotechnology in general.

There are many overlaps between intellectual property and the topic of genetic resources, traditional knowledge and folklore. Developing countries in particular are calling for measures to be introduced in the area of intellectual property in order to better protect GR/ATK.

WIPO’s Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) is particularly concerned with this topic. The 2022 WIPO General Assembly decided to convene a diplomatic conference by the end of 2024 to adopt a new agreement on intellectual property and GR/ATK.

This diplomatic conference took place from 13 to 24 May 2024 at WIPO headquarters in Geneva. After more than 20 years of negotiations, the international community succeeded in adopting a new treaty on intellectual property, GR and ATK. The new treaty is being celebrated as a success, particularly by the countries of the South and by indigenous peoples, as it is the first time that rights to GR and ATK have been recognised in an agreement on intellectual property. Switzerland now has one year to sign the treaty and subsequently to ratify it, if so decided. The new treaty will enter into force once 15 countries have ratified it.