The Role of Customary Laws and Protocols to Protect Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions in the Intellectual Property Rights System

摘要

The customary laws and protocols of traditional and local communities,2 and traditional knowledge and cultural expressions3 naturally originate from a similar socio-psychological archetype.4 Customary laws and protocols shape the way of life of traditional and local communities and guide them in expressing and sharing their knowledge and creativities. One of the key functions of customary laws and protocols is to protect traditional and local communities' tangible and intangible assets against illicit use.