International & Comparative Intellectual Property Law

This course, a follow-up to the Intellectual Property survey course, provides an understanding of the processes for acquiring and maintaining intellectual property rights across national borders as well as the regulations for and issues concerning the enforcement of those rights. Students will examine the key international conventions and agreements governing rights in copyright, trademark and patent, discuss states’ compliance with the obligations imposed by those agreements, and review the ongoing effort toward harmonization of intellectual property laws. Students will also explore the significance of intellectual property laws in the realms of international trade and international human rights, including the role of the World Trade Organization, the consequences of international piracy, and related human rights issues concerning traditional knowledge and biodiversity.