WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge
In May 2024, WIPO member states adopted the first WIPO Treaty to address the interface between intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional knowledge which is also the first WIPO Treaty to include provisions specifically for Indigenous Peoples as well as local communities.
The Treaty text 
Executive summary of the Treaty
The Treaty was adopted during the WIPO Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, held during May 13-24, 2024. Download the explainer on the Diplomatic Conference
Download the FAQs
Explore relevant WIPO publications:
- Informal Summary of the Key Elements of the Treaty for Indigenous Peoples as well as Local Communities
- Guide on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions
- Protect and Promote Your Culture: A Practical Guide to Intellectual Property for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities
The Road to the GR a TK Treaty
General Policy and Legislative Assistance on TK and TCEs
WIPO also provides information and technical assistance, upon request, to regional and national authorities interested in establishing policies, strategies, action plans and legislation related to intellectual property (IP) and genetic resources (GRs), traditional knowledge (TK) and traditional cultural expressions (TCEs).
Resources
Checklist of Key Questions and Issues
Relevant Resources
Explore WIPO-issued relevant resources:
- Key Questions on Patent Disclosure Requirements for Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge
- Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property (WIPO Background Brief 1)
- The WIPO Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore - IGC (WIPO Background Brief 2)
- Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources (WIPO Background Brief 10)
- Technical Study on Disclosure Requirements in Patent Systems Related to Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge
- Disclosure Requirements Table
- Report on the Compilation of Materials on Disclosure Regimes relating to Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge