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In US, Growing Battle Over Offensive Trademarks

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is not admitting defeat. It is still refusing to register trademarks that disparage people, even though this policy violates the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech, according to a December decision by the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. The USPTO has appealed the court ruling, and many experts expect the Supreme Court will soon rule on whether there is constitutional protection for disparaging marks. [Updated!]

Steven Seidenberg
April 26, 2016

WIPO Members Set To Decide On Industrial Design Treaty Negotiation

A potential treaty to facilitate international applications for industrial designs for creators is on the agenda of a meeting next week at the World Intellectual Property Organization. Also on the meeting agenda is the protection of country name registration and use as trademarks, and a proposed geographical indications filing system.

Catherine Saez
April 25, 2016

WIPO Digital Rightsholders Conference Ponders Business Ideas

Last week’s World Intellectual Property Organization conference on the digital content business gathered speakers from different sectors of industry, from content producers to authors and performers. Rightsholders and others gave updates and tried to advance strategies for managing rights in a digital market.

Catherine Saez
April 25, 2016
1 Comment

Despite Government Pledge, US Firms Say They Are Left On Own For Cyber Theft Protection

The United States government continues to ratchet up its rhetoric against state-sponsored “cyber” theft of intellectual property, but private firms largely report that they have to take matters into their own hands.

Bruce Gain
April 21, 2016
1 Comment

WIPO IP And Development Conference Looks At Dynamic IP Systems

Countries develop intellectual property systems in different ways, and a recent conference at the World Intellectual Property Organization delved into some thoughts about, and examples of, how this is done.

William New
April 19, 2016

Russia: New Amendments Would Allow Use Of Inventions Without Permission Of Patent Holders

The Russian government is considering approval of a package of controversial amendments to national legislation that would allow the use of inventions without the permission of patent holders.

Eugene Gerden
April 18, 2016
1 Comment

Study Finds Gaps In Africa-EU Health Research And Innovation Links

CAPE TOWN, South Africa - Health research collaborations between Africa and Europe do not match up with Africa’s own stated funding intentions, says a report published by a European Union-funded project.

Munyaradzi Makoni
April 15, 2016

Trade Secrets Directive Clears European Parliament Despite Concerns

Rejecting calls for a vote to be delayed until the European Commission proposes tougher whistle-blower protections, the European Parliament on 14 April approved by 503-131 new rules giving companies redress for theft or misuse of trade secrets. Debate on the trade secrets directive showed sharp divisions among lawmakers, heightened by the recent “Panama Papers” and other leaks, over whether the legislation will help businesses safeguard their innovative ideas or lead to increased corporate secrecy.

EU Consults On “Neighbouring Rights” For Publishers And “Panorama” Copyright Exceptions

The European Commission is considering giving publishers the same “neighbouring” rights currently available to broadcasters and producers of someone else's copyrighted content, it said in a 23 March consultation document. The inquiry is part of the EC's digital single market initiative to boost Europe's digital economy.

US Senate Backs Bill Allowing Federal Courts To Handle Trade Secret Cases

The “Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016” cleared the Senate unanimously on 4 April. The measure amends the Economic Espionage Act of 1996 to create a private civil cause of action for trade secret misappropriation. The bill now heads to the House, where passage appears likely, according to IP lawyers.

Dugie Standeford
April 6, 2016

Artists, Music Industry Urge Reform Of “Broken” DMCA

Arguing that the copyright law in the United States intended to protect creative works while allowing access by the next creators is "broken", hundreds of top artists, songwriters, managers and music associations are urging reforms to the law. Top performers like Katy Perry and Christina Aguilera joined the call.

William New
April 1, 2016
1 Comment

USTR Annual Report On Trade Barriers Highlights IPR Rights And Wrongs

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) today (30 March) issued its annual National Trade Estimate report pointing fingers at trading partners' practices it sees as barriers to US trade. And the treatment of intellectual property in countries like India is high on the list. But the report also goes to lengths to praise progress in countries too.

William New
April 1, 2016