This document provides arguments for the protection of intellectual property rights from economic, social and legal standpoints. Following this discussion, the paper provides recommendations for positive action that individuals, governments and the international community can take to protect IPRs and ensure that innovation continues to drivehuman progress and enhance standards of living.

"Intellectual Property: Source of innovation, creativity, growth and progress" is one in a series of BASCAP products that are being developed to provide valuable information to stakeholders across sectors and across borders. It was produced with the considerable time and expertise of the BASCAP projects working group, which merits our deepest appreciation.

View document:Intellectual Property: Source of innovation, creativity, growth and progress   知识产权：创新，创造，增长和进步的源泉

Table of contents

Preface

Executive summary

1. What is intellectual property?

2. How do intellectual property rights encourage innovation and creativity?

3. How does intellectual property protection lead to economic progress?

4. Whom does intellectual property theft harm?

5. How can the intellectual property system work for society?