On the path to development many emerging nations focused on importing scientific and technical knowledge from other countries. Following that, they tried to copy and master it. Working and re-working existing knowledge rather than creating new knowledge through research is a predominant activity in innovation. As many technologies and much knowledge are proprietary in nature and form the subject matter of patents owned by foreign entities, a key national policy instrument is the intellectual property rights regime. How it reflects and balances relevant international commitments with the goal of advancing the economic and social rights of its citizens is crucial in promoting their best interests.
This is a Call for Proposals on how developing countries can access technologies and information contained in existing patents to enhance innovative research at the national level. Proposals can be made under any one of the following three headings:
1) THE RESEARCH EXEMPTION
2) COMPULSORY LICENCES
3) PATENT POOLS
Go to http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-112535-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html for more info.
