Intellectualproperty

Intellectual property (IP) refers to legal rights that protect creations of the mind, including inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce. IP rights enable creators to benefit from their work for a limited period, thereby encouraging innovation, cultural development, and economic activity.

The main forms of IP are copyrights, which protect original works of authorship such as books and music; trademarks, which protect brand identifiers including names and logos; patents, which grant exclusive rights to exploit inventions for a set term; and trade secrets, which protect confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage.

Rights typically arise through creation or registration. Depending on jurisdiction, copyright arises automatically upon creation in most countries; patents, trademarks, and some design rights require application and examination or use. Durations vary: patents commonly last about 20 years from filing; copyrights extend for the life of the author plus years; trademarks last as long as they are renewed and in use; trade secrets last as long as secrecy is maintained.

International framework: IP law is harmonized through treaties administered by WIPO and agreements such as the Berne Convention for copyright, the Paris Convention for patents and trademarks, and the TRIPS Agreement under the World Trade Organization. Regional and national laws implement these standards with variations.

Enforcement and exceptions: IP rights are enforced through civil and criminal remedies for infringement, including injunctions and damages. Limitations and defenses include fair use or fair dealing, compulsory licensing in certain sectors, and exceptions for education, research, or public policy, designed to balance public access with creators' incentives.

Policy considerations: IP aims to foster innovation while balancing access, affordability, and public interest. Debates include patenting of life forms, software, and medicines; open-source models; and developing-country access to essential technologies and information.