IP as a Cultural Shield? Protecting Traditional Knowledge and Expression

For First Nations people, cultural appropriation remains a major issue, and Western intellectual property protections continue to fall short of managing infringement.

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 these cultural treasures while ensuring that indigenous communities retain control over their heritage. 

Host Lisa Leong is joined by Smart & Biggar Associate Meika Ellis, who specialises in collaborating with indigenous peoples, businesses and organisations to create protections for their culture and knowledge. Here, they discuss the complexities of protecting and preserving this knowledge, and its unique place in the world of IP.