In 2007, the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) adopted the decision that formally established the “Development Agenda of WIPO” with the aim of placing development at the heart of the Organization’s work.
The decision consisted of the adoption of a set of 45 Development Agenda recommendations and the establishment of a Committee on Development and Intellectual Property (CDIP).
The CDIP was mandated to: (i) develop a work-program for the implementation of the 45 adopted recommendations; (ii) monitor, assess, discuss and report on the implementation of all recommendations adopted, and for that purpose coordinate with relevant WIPO bodies; and (iii) discuss IP and development related issues as agreed by the Committee, as well as those decided by the General Assembly.
The 45 recommendations are grouped into six clusters reflecting the main areas of focus of the Development Agenda. The recommendations require a wide range of actions for implementation, ranging from concrete development-oriented projects and activities to the application of certain principles and objectives that should continue to guide the work of the Organization.
In keeping with its mandate, the Organization has embarked upon a structured approach to mainstream the Development Agenda recommendations into all its work by integrating the recommendations into all its substantive programs. Its introduction of a results-oriented, project-based methodology has led to a significant move forward in the implementation of the recommendations.
The adoption of the Development Agenda was an important milestone for the Organization and its effective implementation has become a key priority.