The WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism: TRIPS Rulings and the Developing Countries: Prospects After Seattle
1 March 2001
By Dr. Richard Rozek
Globalization has replaced protectionism and isolationism in guiding trading relationships among countries. As a result, there have been ongoing efforts to harmonize trading rules, eliminate unfair trade practices, and implement mechanisms to resolve disputes among countries. These trends are especially evident in the area of intellectual property protection. The Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), which is administered by the World Trade Organization, sets the standard for the minimal level of protection for intellectual property in those countries seeking to engage in international trade.
This paper discusses the features of TRIPS, its effect in those countries who have already adopted it, and addresses the arguments of TRIPS' critics. In addition, evidence is presented on the broad base of TRIPS' current supporters, and the need for all countries to adopt the standard.
This paper was published in The Journal of World Intellectual Property, Vol. 4, No. 2, March 2001.
