This article was published by El Universal newspaper. 

As the world continues to evolve in terms of innovation and creativity, the perception of Intellectual Property (IP) plays a crucial role in its utilization and exploitation. Thus, in order to understand how the world perceives it, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has published the Global IP Perception Survey 2023, known as WIPO Pulse.

WIPO Pulse is an unprecedented study that gathers global knowledge about IP. The results of 25,000 surveys conducted in 50 countries provide insight into how the world perceives IP and understands the positive impact it has as a key tool for ensuring social and economic development.

WIPO Pulse presents significant figures on IP perception in different regions of the world. For example, it highlights that the positive perception is higher in the Asia-Pacific region (76%) and Africa (70%) than in Latin America (67%). Regarding our region, there is more knowledge about trademarks than patents, designs, and copyrights.

The survey also reveals interesting differences in IP perception based on gender and age. Overall, the differences between men and women are minimal, except in Latin America, where women show a higher awareness of IP. As for age, contrary to what one might expect in an increasingly innovation-driven world, the study reveals that young people have a lower awareness of IP.

However, it’s not all positive, as the study indicates that, globally, the understanding of IP, especially in areas like patents and designs, needs improvement. This underscores the importance of increasing education and awareness about IP.

Similarly, despite the generally positive perception, the survey reveals that approximately 50% of respondents have reservations about the challenges that IP can pose to the economy. This includes concerns about the possibility of monopolies, high prices for consumers, contributing to social inequality, and limiting innovation and creativity.

It’s important to note that, despite these concerns, the majority of respondents believe that the benefits of IP outweigh the challenges. This suggests that, if properly addressed, IP systems can be key drivers of economic growth and social development. This is particularly relevant for Mexico, where there is an urgent need to increase knowledge about IP, its protection, and the benefits it brings.

An interesting aspect to consider in the immediate future is how these perceptions may correlate with the results of the upcoming Global Innovation Index (GII), to be published on September 27th. This index evaluates innovation in various countries based on a variety of factors, with the perception of IP being a significant factor in these assessments.

By comparing the results of WIPO Pulse with the GII, we will surely gain a more complete picture of how IP perception influences the ability to innovate and thrive. Thus, by harnessing this knowledge, the joint analysis will intensify the focus on the need for Mexico to allocate resources for educating and raising awareness about the importance of IP and how it can contribute to well-being and economic growth.