Despite the spread of COVID-19, declared as a pandemic by WHO, the WIPO Executive Director Francis Gurry assures that the important work plan will be delivered. In particular, the Organisation will continue to process applications filed through the Patent Cooperation Treaty, the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks, the Hague System for the International Registration of Industrial Designs, as well as administer other IP and related systems, including the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center.

As of 17 March, the access to WIPO’s premises in Geneva will be reserved for staff members essential to the delivery of the business continuity protocol. The other personnel will work remotely.