Access the original news release HERE.

The Implementation Project seeks input on positions to be taken by the United States Patent and Trademark Office during negotiations at the World Intellectual Property Organization concerning the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ traditional knowledge, traditional cultural expressions, and genetic resources. These negotiations may result in the creation of international instruments defining the legal parameters for the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ intellectual property rights worldwide.

IMPORTANT DATES AND DEADLINES:

USPTO’s Notice of Request for Public Comment on WIPO IGC Negotiations on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge is available HERE. Written comments are due by January 22, 2024.

USPTO’s Notice of Formal Tribal Consultation on WIPO IGC Negotiations is available HERE. Written comments are due by February 23, 2024.

USPTO is conducting Webinars from 3 to 5 p.m. ET with mandatory registration, available HERE. Webinars for federally recognized tribes are on Tuesday, January 16 and Wednesday, January 17. Webinars for state-recognized tribes, Native Hawaiians, and inter-tribal organizations are on Friday, January 19 and Tuesday, January 23.

Contact The Implementation Project at declaration@narf.org for more information.