Protection of Collective Bio-Cultural Heritage and `Reverse' ABS

Paper prepared for side event, March 24th 18.30, CBD COP 8, Curitiba, Brazil.
Discussions on the protection of traditional knowledge have often emphasised the need for consistency with existing IP standards, rather than recognising the need to respond to a very different context. IIED and partners are working with indigenous communities in Peru, Panama, Kenya, India and China to assist the protection of their rights over traditional knowledge in accordance with their customary laws and practices.