The Joint Vienna Institute (JVI) recently hosted a regional workshop in Vienna, focusing on the TRIPS Agreement and contemporary policy issues. The event was organized in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization and the World Trade Organization (WTO), with contributions from the Medicines Patent Pool.
The workshop featured detailed sessions addressing various aspects of the TRIPS Agreement, including its impact on public health and climate change, as well as discussions on utilizing TRIPS flexibilities. Participants also explored technology transfer and its enablers during these sessions. A study visit to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization headquarters at the Vienna International Center was included in the program.
The primary goal of this workshop was to promote practical analysis and decision-making within complex policy environments. As it concluded, attendees highlighted the significance of cooperation and sharing national experiences to effectively use intellectual property for developmental priorities.
For those interested in technical assistance activities at regional or national levels, requests can be made through the WTO Technical Assistance Management System. Additionally, the WHO-WIPO-WTO Trilateral Technical Assistance Platform is available to support members and WTO accession candidates in building capacity to address challenges at the intersection of public health, intellectual property, and trade.
More information on WTO technical cooperation and training is available online.