A historical review of intellectual property rights in the Palestinian Territories

by 1967- Samaan, Ihab George

Before introducing any new intellectual property (IP) laws in the Palestinian Territories, it is necessary to determine which IP laws are in force there today. This study traces the development of IP laws in Palestine since the end of the Ottoman era until the Palestinian Authority assumed responsibilities in certain parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The study then summarizes the pertinent laws established as currently in force , and offers a comparative analysis of these laws with the requirements of the TRIPS Agreement. Finally, this study raises a number of crucial issues that must be addressed prior to undertaking any attempt to replace the existing IP laws in the Palestinian Territories.