Mr. Manebosa, making his official statement during the Diplomatic Conference to Conclude the International Legal Instrument, Geneva, Switzerland
Mr. Sholto Rodney Manebosa, the Acting Registrar General of Solomon Islands, participated in the proceedings of the Diplomatic Conference to Conclude an International Legal Instrument Relating to Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Traditional Knowledge Associated with Genetic Resources.
It took place at The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Headquarters in Geneva Switzerland, May 13 to May 24, 2024.
In his official remarks, Mr. Manebosa emphasized the Solomon Islands’ abundant genetic resources and rich traditional knowledge. He further emphasized that “We are proud of the wisdom and the worthy customs of our ancestors, mindful of our common and diverse heritage, and conscious of our common destiny.” His remarks points to the daily enactment of traditional knowledge, particularly in remote islands where such knowledge is vital for wellbeing in the absence of modern amenities. And that “this protection will also contribute to our national economy and community developments.” The treaty, according to Mr. Manebosa, strikes a meaningful balance between the rights of investors and the rights of traditional knowledge owners.
Mr. Manebosa signed the Final Act on behalf of the Solomon Islands, marking the formal conclusion of the conference.
Mr. Manebosa concluded in his remarks by reiterating, that the Solomon Islands’ is committed to implementing the treaty and continuing cooperation with international partners. “We believe we have achieved a meaningful instrument that strikes the right balance between the rights of investors and, more importantly, all our peoples, the owners of traditional knowledge.
The WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge offers significant advantages to developing countries like the Solomon Islands. It is designed to protect genetic resources and traditional knowledge, ensure fair benefit-sharing, and provide access to funding, technology, and capacity-building initiatives. By engaging with this treaty, the Solomon Islands can strengthen its legal frameworks, enhance conservation efforts, and promote sustainable economic development. These measures are expected to benefit the environment and local communities significantly.
This participation aligns to the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs priorities. In particular, to strengthen the office of the Registrar General, revised its mandates, and to build its technical capacity through improving its engagement with WIPO on intellectual property laws and international practice.
MJLA Press