IP as a Force for Good: A Conversation with WIPO Director General Daren Tang

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This week on IPWatchdog Unleashed, I had the pleasure of speaking with Daren Tang, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Our conversation spanned a range of topics, from the future of intellectual property (IP), to how intellectual property has been a force for helping humanity, to WIPO's strategic initiatives and the burgeoning impact of artificial intelligence (AI).

A central theme of our conversation was Tang’s fervent advocacy for intellectual property as a catalyst for global innovation and betterment of the human condition.

”IP is about one of the most fundamental things about what it means to be human being,” Tang explained. “Which is to look at the world, imagine how it could be different and apply all tools and knowledge and energies to making that a reality. And IP is part of making, facilitating and enabling that. So, if we look at IP at the highest possible form in its highest broadest way, that's what it really is about. I mean, the laws and regulations and all that is important. Building up IP ecosystems is at its best about helping us as humanity. To shape the world and make it a better place. That's, that's why this mission is for me is, not to be cliched, but it's almost sacred in a way."

With enthusiasm, he recounted how WIPO has embraced its role as a facilitator of IP knowledge, and actively helping nations understand and leverage IP as a tool for economic growth. We also discuss next-gen technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), and discuss why he is seeking a second term as WIPO Director General.

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