Patenting Genetic Resources: Striving for the Right Balance

8 October 2007

A briefing paper published today by Chatham House sheds light on the emotive political debate about patents on inventions which utilize genetic resources or traditional knowledge from developing countries.

Genetic resources are often sourced from developing countries which host a wealth of biological and cultural diversity. The users of these resources tend to be located in developed countries, where the most valuable markets are located and hence where the majority of patent applications are made.

In recent years, controversy has arisen over incidences of resource misappropriation with many coming to view patenting as a form of modern colonialism in developing countries. This has lead to a growing number of calls for reform of the intellectual property system controlling such patents.

The paper examines how providers of genetic resources can receive equitable compensation without stifling access and research. Click here to read Patenting Genetic Resources: Striving for the Right Balance.

For further information please contact:
Sean Armstrong
Press Officer
Chatham House Press Office
Direct: +44 (0) 20 7957 5739
Mobile: +44 (0) 78 4985 3757
Email: Sean Armstrong

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