The WIPO and WTO are jointly organising a two week colloquium from June 16-27, 2014 for teachers of intellectual property from developing countries and countries with economies in transition in Geneva. The colloquium is aimed at being a multidisciplinary activity open to lawyers, researchers, university teachers and economists working in the field. The curriculum for the colloquium and other details can be viewed here.
The eligibility criteria is an advanced degree and teaching experience in IP law or international law/economics/management with a specialization in IP. An excellent knowledge of English is also required as the colloquium will be conducted in English. Additionally, an ongoing role in policy analysis or advice with respect to WIPO or WTO discussions or negotiations, as well as an established track record in research and publication in the field of IP has also been stated to be desirable.
There are twenty-two places in the colloquium for applicants from developing countries and countries with economies in transition whose travel, accommodation and subsistence costs would be covered by the organizers. There are also an additional five spots available for applicants from developing countries who can participate at their own expense. The registration has to be done online by March 30, 2014. Applicants are also required to identify a specific topical IP or legal policy issue that is currently under active debate or review in their country or region on which they can make a short presentation as well as prepare a paper for subsequent publication. A one page summary of this presentation must be submitted along with the Application Form which is due by March. The selection is made by the organizers taking into consideration regional and gender balance. The selected applicants will be directly notified by the organizers. It must be noted that participants in previous colloquia are not eligible to apply within five years of their earlier participation and in cases of a tie between two applicants, preference will be given to applicants who have not previously taken part. The research papers from the 2012 colloquium are available here.
