World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) Mission

To lead the development of a balanced and effective international IP system that enables innovation and creativity for everyone.

When was WIPO founded

Founded July 14, 1967

Where was WIPO founded

The WIPO Convention (signed in Stockholm, Sweden)

WIPO mandate

To promote the protection of intellectual property worldwide through cooperation among states and other international organizations.

Why WIPO was founded

To modernize and consolidate administration of IP treaties, replacing BIRPI (which managed the Paris and Berne Conventions).

WIPO headquarters

Geneva, Switzerland.

WIPO membership

193 member states.

WIPO governing bodies

The General Assembly (highest body, meets every two years), the Conference (all member states, adopts amendments), and the Coordination Committee (executive/administrative matters).

WIPO membership criteria

Per Article 5, an applicant must be a member of the Paris or Berne Union, or of the UN / a UN agency / IAEA / ICJ statute party, or be invited by the WIPO General Assembly.

WIPO Strategic Goal 1

Balanced evolution of the international normative framework for IP.

WIPO Strategic Goal 2

Provision of premier global IP services.

WIPO Strategic Goal 3

Facilitation of the use of IP for development.

WIPO Strategic Goal 4

Coordination and development of global IP infrastructure.

WIPO Strategic Goal 5

World reference source for IP information and analysis.

WIPO Strategic Goal 6

International cooperation on building respect for IP.

WIPO Strategic Goal 7

Addressing IP in relation to global policy issues.

WIPO Strategic Goal 8

A responsive communications interface between WIPO, its member states, and all stakeholders.

WIPO Strategic Goal 9

An efficient administrative and financial support structure to enable WIPO to deliver its programs.