Although the WTO has now agreed to relax intellectual property rules in order to facilitate the production and distribution of inexpensive generic antivirals, the conditions under which this provision...

Although the WTO has now agreed to relax intellectual property rules in order to facilitate the production and distribution of inexpensive generic antivirals, the conditions under which this provision allows for production or importation of generics (“genuine health reasons”) are not entirely clear. The WTO is to hold a hearing for interested parties to provide input about how these rules should be implemented. Your group represents the interests of one of the key stakeholders (see table) and will be responsible for arguing that stakeholder’s position.

Discuss with your group the major points to make to advance your perspectives. Come prepared to make a five minute presentation summarizing how you would like the WTO to implement the new rules. The WTO group should ask questions during the hearing. It should then take 10 minutes to deliberate and come up with a proposed plan incorporating the interests of all of the stakeholders.