The purpose of the WIPO Mediation and Arbitration Workshop is to provide intensive basic training of a practical nature for party representatives in mediation and arbitration and for mediators and arbitrators. The training will focus on the mediation process and on the main principles of international commercial arbitration law and practice, with particular reference to the practical case application of the WIPO Mediation, Arbitration and Expedited Arbitration Rules (as well as the WIPO Expert Determination Rules) in intellectual property and technology disputes.

The format of the workshop will consist of presentations by the instructors, practical exercises supervised by the instructors and discussion between participants and instructors. Participants are expected to take an active part in the exercises and discussion sessions. After completion of the workshop, participants will have a better understanding of the substantive components of international commercial mediation and arbitration, as well as the benefits and limitations of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in intellectual property disputes as compared to other dispute resolutions options, in particular court litigation. In addition, they will obtain practical information about the role of the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center (WIPO Center) in ADR proceedings, and its clauses and rules.

The workshop will be conducted by experienced mediators and arbitrators with extensive international mediation experience, including exposure to intellectual property, technology issues, and entertainment transactions. WilmerHale Partners Rachael Kent and Trevor Cook will speak at this event.