Protecting Intellectual Property Rights


Georgian and American officials discuss enforcement of intellectual property rights. (Betty J. Hayes/State Dept.)

Georgians, Americans Plan Steps To Protect Intellectual Property

Representatives from Georgia and the United States participating in a recent video conference agree to work toward establishing a Georgian government point-person to enforce intellectual property protection laws in Georgia and to publicize clear steps for complainants. One key project will be to develop a simple “road map” -- either a brochure or Web site with clear steps laid out -- that tells intellectual property holders how to proceed if their rights have been violated in Georgia. Intellectual property rights protection is critical if Georgia's small, innovative industries are to flourish, U.S. officials say. (complete text)

Teen Rockers Reap Benefits of Online Copyright Protections

Teenagers often are viewed as the worst violators of copyright laws, illegally downloading and sharing music on the Internet, but as artists they also have much to gain from copyright protection in the United States. The Internet, the frequent tool of intellectual property piracy, also has made it easier to protect intellectual property and earn legitimate income for teenage artists who copyright and license their music online. USINFO looks at the progress being made to ensure young people reap the rewards of their artistic talents. (complete text)

Cooperation Needed To Balance Medicine Patents, Global Needs

The United States is trying to strike a delicate balance between the rights of U.S. pharmaceutical patent holders and the needs of poor and developing countries facing medical emergencies, U.S. officials say. Recent disputes between some U.S. pharmaceutical companies and the governments of Thailand and Brazil illustrate the need for open dialogue and flexibility by all interested parties, they add. (complete text)