Outcome Fifth Session Lisbon Working Group (Jun 11-15, 2012)

The Working Group took up the Draft New Instrument (“DNI”) and the Draft Regulations (“DR”), as contained in documents LI/WG/DEV/5/2 and LI/WG/DEV/5/3, respectively, and had a detailed discussion of Articles 1 to 11 and Rules 4 to 8.

Most of the time was spent on the definitions of geographical indication and appellation of origin for the purposes of their international registration as well as the modalities and scope of their protection (Articles 5 and 10), but also on the question whether a Diplomatic Conference to conclude the deliberations on the DNI could be convened by the Lisbon Union Assembly or would necessitate a decision by the General Assembly of WIPO.

In view of the progress made at the session, the Chair concluded that the Working Group would continue its examination and discussion of the DNI and the DR, at its next session, on the basis of revised versions to be prepared by the Secretariat. The revised texts should take into account the comments and drafting suggestions made and should reflect, where appropriate, alternative provisions and different options between brackets. On substance, the revised DNI should, in particular, reflect a single level of protection for both geographical indications and appellations of origin.

The Working Group also agreed that an electronic forum should be established allowing participants to exchange comments and drafting suggestions between Working Group sessions.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Summary by the Chair that was adopted by the Working Group at the end of the session.

The sixth session of the Working Group is scheduled for the week of December 3 to 7, 2012.