Sudan Highlights Impact of Proxy Militia Conflict on Intellectual Property Development at WIPO Assembly

Sudan’s Permanent Representative to Geneva, Ambassador Hassan Hamid, has reiterated Sudan’s firm commitment to strengthening and safeguarding intellectual property (IP) as a vital mechanism for fostering economic growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and protecting the nation’s cultural and economic assets.

During the opening session of the 68th General Assembly of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Ambassador Hamid provided a comprehensive overview of Sudan’s ongoing efforts to build national capacity in the IP sector. He highlighted several key projects undertaken in partnership with WIPO, including the formulation of a national IP strategy designed to align with Sudan’s development goals.

Further initiatives discussed included the registration of geographical indications, aimed at showcasing Sudan’s rich array of high-quality products and natural resources that are intrinsically linked to the country’s unique geographical environment. Additionally, Sudan has established a national training center alongside technology and innovation centers to nurture expertise and support IP-related activities.

However, Ambassador Hamid underscored the severe challenges posed by the proxy war involving rebel militias, which receive continuous military and political backing from regional sponsors. This conflict has systematically targeted critical infrastructure, causing extensive damage to the sectors of creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and research.

The Permanent Representative described how these hostilities have inflicted widespread repercussions on Sudan’s intellectual property ecosystem, undermining the progress made and threatening the sustainability of innovation-driven development.

In light of these difficulties, Ambassador Hamid appealed to WIPO to play an active role in supporting Sudan’s recovery efforts. He called for assistance in capacity building to restore and enhance the national intellectual property system.

He emphasized Sudan’s anticipation of a collaborative partnership with WIPO to facilitate reconstruction, promote innovation, and advance sustainable development within the country.

Ambassador Hamid’s address reflects Sudan’s strategic prioritization of intellectual property as a cornerstone for economic resilience and growth, even amid ongoing conflict and instability.