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]
Quick links
- Guide for observers [PDF]
- Consultation & draft study on observer participation
- Indigenous panels
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 [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]
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] 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 52nd Session of the IGC (2026, pending the renewal of the mandate of the IGC) must complete the following application form and send them to WIPO before March 30, 2025 [PDF] [DOC]
Voluntary Fund questions and answers [PDF]
Testimonials from beneficiaries of the WIPO Voluntary Fund
Indigenous representative from Australia
Indigenous representative from the United States of America
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.