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Emirates group receives observer status at WIPO
23 August 2023
The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA), a national non-profit organization in the UAE devoted to protecting the rights of writers and publishers, has accomplished an important milestone by being given Ad hoc observer status at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
The decision was made at a meeting of the WIPO Assemblies held in Geneva at the WIPO headquarters. This advancement places ERRA among national non-governmental organizations, and as such, it is invited to attend WIPO Assemblies and Unions sessions as an observer in accordance with relevant standards.
ERRA now has access to meetings at WIPO’s subsidiary bodies, including particular WIPO Committee sessions, thanks to its recognition as an ad hoc observer. Additionally, it gives ERRA a chance to engage in debates on IP laws and express viewpoints on current and upcoming trends in the industry. By participating in this international stakeholder forum, ERRA affirms the UAE’s commitment to advancing intellectual property protection and places the country’s creative economy on the global intellectual property map.
Majd Al Shehhi, the director of ERRA, remarked that this success “marks a momentous step for ERRA as it establishes its presence on a global stage.”
He said: “The approval of observer status enhances our commitment to fighting for the preservation of intellectual property and advancing the interests of writers and publishers as an Emirati non-profit organization. By participating in this multistakeholder forum, we have the opportunity to share our opinions and help shape the direction of intellectual property.”
The involvement of ERRA, among other stakeholder organizations and interest groups, promotes the expansion of the publishing industry in the UAE. In order to advance sustainable development goals and advance the interests of writers, publishers, and the creative industries in the UAE, the organization will take advantage of this opportunity to increase its support for creative talent of all rightholders.
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
