Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property Protection: Challenges and Opportunities in Thailand
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Abstract
Traditional knowledge (TK) in Thailand is developed, maintained, and passed down from generation to generation. Unquestionably, TK contributes significantly to a nation’s identity, health care, culture, food security, environment, and development. Numerous indigenous communities in Thailand depend heavily on TK for their livelihoods and identities. As a result, the misappropriation of TK can have a negative impact on their interests and rights. Currently, there is no law protecting TK in Thailand. Inequitable exploitation of TK for commercial or industrial purposes can therefore jeopardise the rights of TK holders, specifically indigenous people, and local communities. Existing intellectual property (IP) rights, particularly geographical indications (GIs), plant variety rights, and trade secrets, can be utilised to protect TK. However, each of the available IP protection regimes has both benefits and drawbacks. The statutory granting criteria of each regime are insufficient to cover all types of TK. Therefore, both advantages and disadvantages should be carefully considered when selecting an appropriate protection mechanism. However, TK that does not meet the requirements established by the laws will not be protected. This demonstrates that Thailand's TK cannot be adequately protected using only existing IP regimes. There are certain restrictions and loopholes in the current legal system that allow for the misappropriation of TK. To increase the effectiveness of the protection of TK in Thailand, the adoption of a sui generis system for TK protection should be strongly reconsidered. Furthermore, regional cooperation among the ASEAN members in this area should be strengthened.
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