Overview
Intellectual property protects the rights of creators and innovators. But that protection becomes complicated when traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions are involved, particularly where women are the creators. The undefined nature of these expressions, and the near absence of a protective legislative framework, leaves them open to exploitation.
The problem is especially pronounced in developing countries like Nigeria, and most acutely among rural women. Many are unaware that their traditional cultural expressions can be protected under intellectual property law. This lack of awareness, among other factors, has prevented them from reaping the full benefits of their creative work.
Published in commemoration of the 2023 World IP Day, themed "Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity," this paper explores the intersection of intellectual property, gender and traditional cultural expressions in Nigeria. It focuses on rural women and offers suggestions on how their creative innovations can be better protected.
