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Participating in the IGC

Participation in the IGC is open to WIPO member states and accredited inter-governmental (IGO) and non-governmental (NGO) organizations.

  • List of accredited organizations PDF, list of IGC observers

Quick links

Accreditation

Decisions on accreditation are made by the WIPO member states at the beginning of each session of the IGC. Organizations requesting to be accredited as an observer at the IGC should complete the accreditation form Accreditation form, Pdf doc and submit it to WIPO at least 60 days prior to each session of the IGC.

  • Frequently Asked Questions – Accreditation to the IGC PDF, FAQ on IGC accreditation

WIPO Voluntary Fund

The WIPO Voluntary Fund facilitates the participation of indigenous and local communities in the work of the IGC. Accredited observers which are representatives of local or indigenous communities may apply for financial support for participation in IGC sessions and meetings of the Intersessional Working Groups (IWGs). The rules PDF, Rules of the Voluntary Fund of the Voluntary Fund are adopted by the WIPO General Assembly.

The extent of support that the Voluntary Fund can provide depends on donations. Potential donors are encouraged to contact WIPO for further information. Even modest contributions will contribute to the success of the Fund.

Applicants for funding of their participation in the 50th Session of the IGC (first quarter of 2025) must complete the following application form and send them to WIPO before October 16, 2024 PDF, Voluntary Fund Questions and Answers  PDF, Voluntary Fund Questions and Answers

Voluntary Fund questions and answers PDF, Voluntary Fund Questions and Answers

Testimonials from beneficiaries of the WIPO Voluntary Fund

Patricia Adjei
Indigenous representative from Australia
Dietrix Jon Ulukoa Duhaylonsod
Indigenous representative from the United States of America
Lucia Fernanda Inácio Belfort Sales
Indigenous representative from Brazil

Observer submissions

Accredited observers may submit to WIPO (via e-mail to grtkf@wipo.int) comments, technical papers, national experiences and other documents relevant to the issues being discussed under the IGC. These documents are published on the observer submissions web page.