Mass Media Notes
Alternative dispute resolution services for format plagiarism or the unauthorized copying of TV formats used for game, reality or talent shows and sitcoms will be provided by the World Intellectual Property Organization and the Format Recognition and Protection Association. Trade…
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in TV formats, which is the general idea and content of a TV show, like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, is growing, WIPO said, as are competition and the number of disputes over unauthorized use of formats owned by third parties. Resolution in court can be difficult to achieve because of different national laws, WIPO said. “Delays, costs and burdens of litigation can be damaging,” said Ute Biernat, the association’s chairman. Mediation and arbitration can help format owners, producers and broadcasters resolve disputes out of court in a more flexible, confidential and efficient way, Biernat said. WIPO will use the association’s existing mediation activity and will administer TV format-related disputes filed under its mediation and expedited arbitration rules for film and media. The groups expect to train and appoint specialists from a dedicated international WIPO panel of film and media mediators, arbitrators and experts.