IP as a cultural shield? Protecting traditional knowledge and expression

Traditional cultural expressions and knowledge are invaluable assets to their communities, but often don’t fit into protections typically afforded by Western IP systems. This can leave important cultural treasure vulnerable to infringement and cultural appropriation.

In this episode of From Idea to Intellectual Property, we explore the IP of indigenous knowledge and cultural expression, and the tools in place that can help protect it while ensuring that indigenous communities retain control over their heritage. A keen focus is given to the First Nations communities of Canada, through the lens of Smart & Biggar Associate Meika Ellis’ own cultural heritage and experience.

Meika specialises in collaborating with indigenous peoples, businesses and organisations to create protections for their culture and knowledge. Here, she and host ABC Radio’s Lisa Leong discuss the complexities of protecting and preserving this knowledge, and its unique place in the world of IP.