WSIS Forum 2017 will be held from 12–16 June 2017 in Geneva, Switzerland. More info.

Software Licensing: Navigating a Sea of Options

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

Software is pervasive, affecting virtually every aspect of human life in all parts of the world.  Software can be protected by IPR in a number of ways and can be distributed through innumerous types of licenses.  A good understanding of the available options in place, both commercial and Open Source Software, is essential for every players in the chain, such as individual users or public authorities in need of making procurement decisions. Speakers will also discuss the issue of patentability of software, current licensing practices in mobile apps development and the relevance of consumer protection and competition law.

Moderator

Paolo Lanteri, Legal Officer, World Intellectual Property Organization

Speakers / panellists
  • Dr. Jacques de Werra, Professor of Law, University of Geneva 
  • Mr. Malcolm Bain, Partner, ID Law Partners
  • Ms. Marcela Paiva, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Chile
  • Ms. Aida Dolotbaeva, Patent Law Division, WIPO
  • Mr. Chris DiBona, Director of open source, Google
  • Dr. Roberto di Cosmo, Director, Irill and Software Heritage
  • Dr. Tim Engelhardt, FSFE
Link to WSIS Action Lines
  • C3. Access to information and knowledge
  • C6. Enabling environment
  • C7. ICT Applications: E-business
  • C9. Media

A well functioning ICT sector relies on many factors, including well informed players and users.  Governments, small companies and the general public would greatly benefit from having some basic understanding of how software is developed and distributed. This objective is clearly related to a number of Action Lines, including: Access to information and knowledge and Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs.
 

Link to the Sustainable Development Process
  • Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

The session will contribute towards building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation.


WSIS Forum 2016 | WSIS Action Lines: Supporting the Implementation of SDGs
2–6 May 2016, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland