On March 25, a webinar marking a new step in the development of mediation in copyright and neighboring rights in Algeria brought together experts and mediators selected to join the joint list of ONDA and WIPO. This event was part of the memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 between the two organizations, with the aim of promoting and strengthening access to alternative dispute resolution methods in the field of copyright.
A Strategic Cooperation for Mediation
For several years, the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center has been supporting intellectual property offices around the world in developing mediation and arbitration solutions tailored to their needs. In Algeria, this collaboration with ONDA has reached an important milestone with:
- The organization of the first WIPO-ONDA seminar in January 2024, aimed at raising awareness among copyright stakeholders about the benefits of alternative dispute resolution methods.
- The selection of a group of specialized mediators to handle disputes in copyright and neighboring rights.
- The creation of an online mediation case submission and management platform, available in Arabic and French.
The March 25 webinar aimed to formally welcome the newly selected mediators and exchange views on the legal framework for mediation in Algeria and internationally, digital tools to support mediation, and best practices for conducting effective mediations.
Why Choose Mediation?
Speakers highlighted the numerous advantages of mediation for creators, businesses, and collective management organizations:
- A fast and cost-effective process.
- A confidential and flexible approach.
- A solution tailored to the specificities of copyright, where dialogue, mutual understanding, and the preservation of existing relationships play a key role.
Next Steps
The collaboration between WIPO and ONDA regarding alternative dispute resolution methods does not stop here! Upcoming initiatives include:
- The official launch of ONDA's online mediation platform.
- Ongoing training for mediators, particularly with support from the WIPO Academy.
- Awareness campaigns and seminars to promote mediation among copyright stakeholders.
The enthusiasm and commitment of the participants reflect a genuine momentum towards a culture of amicable dispute resolution in Algeria.
Many thanks to the speakers and participants for these enriching exchanges! This collaboration between WIPO and ONDA paves the way for the establishment of balanced and sustainable solutions for the protection of the rights of all actors in the cultural sector.