The Holy See reaffirms the importance of excluding human genetic resources from the scope of this Treaty, as set forth in Article 2 and agreed upon throughout the preparatory works. This underscores that respect for human dignity remains the foremost shared principle that underpins our coexistence, the sanctity of human life, and the common good.
Statement of H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Representative of the Holy See to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva at the Closing Session of the WIPO Diplomatic Conference which adopted the WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge
Geneva, 24 May 2024
Mr. President,
My Delegation wishes to express its gratitude to you, Ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota, and to WIPO Director General Daren Tang, for your remarkable leadership throughout the entire process of this Diplomatic Conference. It also extends its thanks to the Presidents of the Committees, Ms. Jodie McAlister (Australia) and Ms. Vivienne Katjiuongua (Namibia), for their skillful handling of the procedure, which led to a successful outcome. My Delegation also expresses its appreciation to the WIPO Secretariat for the unwavering efforts and tireless support over the past few days.
The Holy See sincerely welcomes the adoption of this Treaty that establishes an international mechanism, marking a significant step forward in our collective dedication to safeguarding invaluable genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge.
My Delegation particularly commends the constructive approach taken by all the parties involved in the negotiation process. This approach reflects a profound commitment to fostering multilateral cooperation, achieving compromise and advancing a dynamic forward-looking IP system that benefits everyone.
The Holy See notes with appreciation the participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in the process, as well as the incorporation of language that is sensitive to the specific cultural and juridical contexts in which they live.
Finally, the Holy See reaffirms the importance of excluding human genetic resources from the scope of this Treaty, as set forth in Article 2 and agreed upon throughout the preparatory works. This underscores the recognition that respect for human dignity remains the common and most fundamental principle that underpins our coexistence, the sanctity of human life, and the common good.
I thank you, Mr. President.