WIPO GRATK Treaty Resource Center

In May 2024, WIPO member states adopted the first WIPO Treaty to address the interface between intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional knowledge. It is also the first WIPO Treaty to include provisions specifically for Indigenous Peoples as well as local communities. 

Upon entry into force, with ratification by 15 contracting parties, the Treaty will establish a new international disclosure requirement for patent applications involving genetic resources and/or associated traditional knowledge. This Resource Center highlights and documents the extensive work, dialogue, and collaboration that led to the adoption of this historic instrument. It offers access to key background materials and supporting resources that reflect the decades of effort invested by WIPO member states, Indigenous representatives, and other stakeholders in framing this Treaty

The Treaty was adopted during the WIPO Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, held during May 13-24, 2024.
Download the explainer on the Diplomatic Conference [PDF]

Download the FAQs [PDF]

Has your country signed the GRATK Treaty?

Resources

General policy and legislative assistance on GRs, TK and TCEs

WIPO also provides information and technical assistance, upon request, to regional and national authorities interested in establishing policies, strategies, action plans and legislation related to intellectual property (IP) and genetic resources (GRs), traditional knowledge (TK) and traditional cultural expressions (TCEs).

Developing a National Strategy on Intellectual Property, Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions (WIPO Background Brief 3) [PDF]

Resources

Relevant resources

Legal resources

Developing a National Strategy on Intellectual Property, Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions (WIPO Background Brief 3)