World Intellectual Property Organization | WIPO

Intellectual property refers to intellectual creations such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names and images used in commerce, etc.

Intellectual property is protected by laws such as patents, copyrights and trademarks, which enable people to gain recognition or economic benefits from their inventions or creations. By striking an appropriate balance between the interests of innovators and the interests of the general public, the intellectual property system aims to create an environment in which creativity and innovation can flourish

Types of intellectual property

Do you know the difference between patents and industrial designs, do you know how to copyright your photos, or why you would want to obtain a protected designation of origin? Discover everything you want to know about intellectual property.

• Patents

A patent is an exclusive right granted to an invention. Generally, a patent gives the patentee the right to decide whether and how others can use the invention. In exchange for this right, the patent holder discloses the technical information of the invention in the published patent document.

• Copyright

Copyright is the legal term used to describe the rights that creators have over their literary and artistic works. Examples of copyrighted works include books, music, paintings, sculptures, films, computer programs, databases, advertisements, maps and technical drawings.

• Trademarks

Trademarks are signs that distinguish the goods or services of one company from those of others. The origins of trademarks date back to ancient times, when craftsmen often put their signatures or "marks" on their products.

• Industrial Designs

Industrial designs are decorative or aesthetic features of an article. Designs can be three-dimensional features, such as the shape or appearance of an article, or flat features, such as patterns, lines or colors.

• Geographical Indications

Geographical indications and appellations of origin are signs used for goods that have a specific geographical origin and have qualities, reputation or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that place of origin. Most commonly, geographical indications include the name of the place where the goods are produced.

• Trade Secrets

Trade secrets are intellectual property rights concerning confidential information that can be sold or licensed. The unauthorized acquisition, use or disclosure of such confidential information by others in a manner inconsistent with honest business practices is considered an unfair practice in violation of trade secret protection.