Photo: park.by
Belarus has six laws that regulate IP rights. These laws are reviewed and improved periodically to ensure they keep pace with technological developments and are in line with international IP standards.
Recently, legislators revised and updated national laws on patents, utility models, industrial designs, trademarks and service marks and the protection of topographies of integrated circuits. Parliament is currently considering a revised draft law on geographical indications and a new law on copyright and related rights will enter into force soon. Numerous IP-related by-laws are also subject to periodic review and improvement. Fifty such by-laws were updated in 2018 alone.
With a view to strengthening the links between academia and business, promoting the commercialization of research results, and stimulating business growth, the Government has established ten technology parks in cities across Belarus. The Hi-Tech Park (HTP) in Minsk, for example, which is now recognized worldwide for its technical expertise, was established to develop the country’s digital economy.
IP education has been another important focus of NCIP’s work. Recognizing the central importance of IP education to a thriving innovation ecosystem, in 2004, NCIP set up its Training Center for Intellectual Property. The Center provides professional development opportunities for legal professionals, businesses and researchers, including residents of the technology parks mentioned above, and more.
Belarus has been a member of WIPO since the Organization began operations in 1970 and remains actively engaged in its work. Over the past five decades, WIPO and Belarus have established a solid basis for cooperation in developing the national IP system and in promoting the strategic use of IP for the country’s economic development.
Source: WIPO Magazine
