PROTECTING INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS, CHALLENGES, AND SUSTAINABLE GOVERNANCE

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge (IK) refers to the collective wisdom, practices, and innovations cultivated by indigenous communities through prolonged engagement with their environment. Indigenous knowledge differs from traditional intellectual property rights (IPR) in that it is collective, culturally embedded, and frequently passed down orally through generations. This chapter looks at how IPR and indigenous knowledge are related. It talks about the problems of protecting traditional knowledge within the current legal systems. It talks about how important indigenous knowledge is for managing resources in a way that is good for the environment, preserving culture, and advancing science. The chapter also talks about important issues like biopiracy, not having enough records, shared ownership, and being sensitive to other cultures. It looks at international legal systems and suggests ways to make sure that indigenous knowledge is recognised and protected fairly, such as using documentation systems, community-based protection, and ethical research practices.