Distinctive Signs:

Overview:

This course explores the legal foundations and practical significance of distinctive signs such as trademarks, geographical indications (GIs), and collective marks. Participants will gain insight into how these signs protect origin, quality, and reputation, and how they can be strategically used to create value for businesses and communities. Topics Covered: → Trademarks: Legal foundations, scope of protection, and role in brand identity and consumer trust → Geographical Indications: Linking quality and origin, protection systems, and economic potential → Collective Marks: Supporting group branding, governance, and access to markets → Comparing Distinctive Signs: Key differences, similarities, and when to use each tool → Legal Frameworks: Overview of international and regional systems (WIPO Lisbon Agreement, Madrid System, OAPI, EUIPO) → Strategic Use Cases: Real-life examples leveraging distinctive signs for growth.