U.S. Statement on the WIPO Leadership Crisis

by Ambassador Warren W. Tichenor
Permanent Representative of the United States of America
to the United Nations and International Organizations

Geneva,
October 18, 2007

Following the failure of the 43rd WIPO General Assembly to adopt a budget or to properly address the evidence of misconduct by the Director General contained in the Internal Audit Report, the United States is determined to work together in good faith with WIPO member states, and with other stake-holders to resolve the crisis and move this vital organization forward.  We recognize the valuable contributions of WIPO employees to the organization, and we look forward to working with them as well.

The WIPO Internal Audit report raises serious questions about the judgment, character, and integrity of the Director General and his ability to effectively lead the organization, charges which have been echoed by a growing number of member states in recent weeks.

The United States notes with great interest the appeal issued by WIPO staff members regarding the current impasse at WIPO.  The United States is also concerned about the crisis in leadership at WIPO. 

The current crisis of leadership at WIPO must be expeditiously resolved so that the vital work of the organization, including the Development Agenda, can move forward in a positive fashion. 

WIPO deserves a Director General who is above reproach and who can effectively lead the organization into the future.  The U.S. will continue to play a constructive role to put WIPO on a solid footing so that the organization can resume its critical role of promoting innovation, economic prosperity and development through a strong global IPR protection system.

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