Intellectual Property Law Harmonization within and Beyond Europe: Achievements and Future Challenges

Abstract

This essay discusses the process of harmonization of the legislation impacting on intellectual property rights at international level and within the European Union. To this end, after an up-to-date account of the international treaties applicable within the EU and of the European Directives and Regulations on various domains, such as copyright and related rights, patents and utility models, design, trademarks, geographical indications, etc., the paper preliminarily suggests hurdles and perspectives of a global IP harmonization. The essay concludes that whilst world-wide IP rights are not an easy target, they are nonetheless an obligatory choice, especially in some wide-ranging areas of Intellectual Property.