GENEVA – The international broadcasting community will soon have an alternative dispute resolution service to address format plagiarism or the unauthorized copying of television formats.
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Format Recognition and Protection Association (FRAPA) have announced plans to join forces later this month in an effort to help settle disputes that are often difficult to resolve in court because of differences in relevant national laws.
While the format industry and the trade in TV formats is growing, the two organizations said that the industry is characterized by fierce competition and frequent disputes as TV formats, such as those used for game, reality or talent shows and sitcoms, are often remade in different markets using local parties.
“Delays, costs and burdens of litigation can be damaging”, said FRAPA chair Ute Biernat, in a statement. “This is why alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation and arbitration, can help format owners, producers and broadcasters resolve their disputes out of court in a more flexible, confidential and efficient way that can also preserve their business relationships.”
The WIPO-FRAPA collaboration will be officially launched at FRAPA’s 10th anniversary event on April 11 in France.
