The open access publication of this book has been published with the support of the Swiss National Science Foundation.
This comprehensive book explores how traditional knowledge (TK) intersects with global intellectual and ecological discussions within the framework of intellectual property rights (IPRs). It provides practical solutions for local communities, indigenous peoples, and policymakers to protect and utilize TK effectively, including a detailed case study on Persian Carpets. Drawing on unique insights from key international organizations such as WIPO, WTO, and UNESCO, this book is an indispensable resource for legal scholars, students, and practitioners seeking to understand and strengthen TK protection under IPRs. The reader will discover strategies to prevent TK misappropriation and promote fair legal frameworks worldwide.
Acknowledgement
List of Figures and Tables
List of Cases
Abbreviations
Introduction
1Background on Persian Carpets and Traditional Knowledge
2The Value of TK and PCs for Local Communities
3Description of the Problem
4Methodology
1 Concepts of Traditional Knowledge
1Brief Review of International Instrument Regarding TK
2What Is Traditional Knowledge?
3Who Are the Beneficiaries?
4Who Are the Beneficiaries of PCs?
5Who Might Represent Beneficiaries?
6Summary
2 Intellectual Property Protection of Traditional Knowledge
1The Concept of Protection
2Intellectual Property Rights as a Tool for Protection of TK?
3Formalities for Protection
4Duration of TK Protection
5TK in the Public Domain
6A Preliminary Note on Copyright, Unfair Competition and Trade Secret
7Summary
3 Protection of Persian Carpets under Trademark Law
1Introduction
2Brief Review of International Instruments Regarding Trademark Law
3What Do TKHs Expect from the Trademark Legal Regime?
4Approach for Protection of TK-Related Signs
5Beneficiaries of TK-RS
6Duration of Protection of TK-RS
7Summary and Recommendations
4 Protection of Persian Carpets under Geographical Indications
1Introduction
2Brief Review of International Instruments Regarding Protection of GIs
3What Do TKHs Expect from GIs Legal Regime?
4The Possibility of Protection for PCs as Subject Matter of GIs Law
5Challenges of Protection
6Who Are Beneficiaries of the GIs?
7Duration of Protection
8Summary and Recommendations
Conclusions
Bibliography
Index
Hojjat Khademi, PhD (Bern University, 2020), is an expert in Intellectual Property Rights, specializing in Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge. He co-authored a chapter in Indigenous Knowledge & Intellectual Property (Juta, 2016) on protecting traditional medical knowledge.
