WIPO Advances Global Dialogue on AI’s Impact on Intellectual Property Policy

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has been actively engaging the global IP community to examine the evolving impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on intellectual property policy. This initiative, known as the WIPO Conversation on IP and AI, began with its inaugural session in September 2019. The first session aimed to identify key questions policymakers must consider as AI technologies increasingly influence innovation and creativity.

In December 2019, WIPO published a draft Issues Paper on IP policy and AI, marking the start of a public consultation process. This consultation sought feedback from a broad international audience to pinpoint the most pressing challenges that AI poses to IP frameworks. The process garnered over 250 submissions, reflecting diverse perspectives from stakeholders worldwide.

Taking into account the extensive input received, WIPO released a revised Issues Paper in May 2020. This updated document formed the basis for in-depth discussions during the second and third sessions of the WIPO Conversation, held in July and November 2020 respectively.

The second session, convened in July 2020, focused on conceptual questions surrounding IP protection for AI-generated works and inventions, as well as the role of data in the AI ecosystem. The third session, held in November 2020, explored the intersection of AI with trademark law and emphasized the importance of capacity building to support IP systems adapting to AI advancements.

Summaries of these sessions, along with searchable databases of nearly 100 written submissions addressing the issues discussed, are publicly accessible. These resources are linked to video recordings of the meetings, providing transparency and facilitating ongoing stakeholder engagement.

Further advancing the dialogue, the sixth session of the WIPO Conversation, conducted in September 2022, delved deeply into the topic of AI inventions. WIPO is preparing a detailed paper outlining possible scenarios for AI inventorship, with publication expected in 2023.

Throughout this process, WIPO has maintained a commitment to inclusivity, drawing submissions from a wide range of participants globally. The issues discussed correspond to specific points outlined in both the draft and revised Issues Papers, ensuring a structured and comprehensive examination of AI’s implications for IP policy.

WIPO’s Director General has actively participated in these conversations, underscoring the organization’s leadership role in shaping international IP policy responsive to technological change. The ongoing WIPO Conversation on IP and AI exemplifies a collaborative approach to addressing complex policy questions in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

By fostering dialogue, gathering extensive stakeholder input, and preparing targeted policy analyses, WIPO aims to equip policymakers with the insights necessary to adapt IP systems effectively to the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.