On January 15, 2024, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with the Government of Singapore, announced the establishment of a mediation program for countries within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). According to the provided information, the program offers funding for mediations administered by the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center in Singapore, addressing any existing disputes or negotiations related to intellectual property or technology.
The conditions to be eligible for this mechanism include, firstly, that at least one of the parties is a national or entity of ASEAN (Brunei, Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam). Secondly, it is a requirement for the mediator to be based in Singapore, although mediation can take place either in-person or remotely. Thirdly, parties are expected to provide feedback on the experience and consent to the disclosure of the case, excluding details of the agreement terms. Lastly, parties must be willing to allow an alternative mediator appointed by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, as part of the Young IP Mediator initiative, to attend the meeting as an observer.
Parties will be reimbursed up to 5,500 euros (8,000 SGD), and each party can potentially claim an equal share of up to 2,500 euros (4,000 SGD), unless otherwise agreed. The reimbursement will be limited to costs related to mediation and is subject to compliance with the aforementioned conditions. Interested parties can access this mechanism until December 31, 2024, or until the program funds are depleted, whichever occurs first.
In 2022, the Author's Institute signed a collaboration agreement with the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center to promote alternative dispute resolution methods and jointly develop the MEDIAUTOR – WIPO Mediation Rules. This "Mediautor" project aims to provide specialized mediation services for conflicts related to cultural projects, specifically in areas such as intellectual property and cultural industries, as well as disputes over image rights. This agreement will be applicable to conflict resolution administered by both entities.
Source: Organización Mundial de Propiedad Intelectual (WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme).