Knowledge Ecology International

Knowledge Ecology International (KEI) is a non-profit organization that focuses on the analysis and advocacy of policies related to intellectual property, health care, and technology. Founded in 2006 by James Love and Tim Hubbard, KEI is dedicated to promoting a more equitable balance between the rights of creators and the public's access to knowledge and technology. The organization is particularly known for its work in advocating for access to affordable medicines and the reform of patent laws and practices globally.

History

KEI was established as a response to the growing concern over the impact of intellectual property rights on public health, access to knowledge, and innovation. The founders, James Love and Tim Hubbard, were previously involved in the Consumer Project on Technology (CPTech), which was founded by Ralph Nader. KEI aimed to expand the scope of work beyond what CPTech covered, focusing more broadly on knowledge management, technology, and intellectual property issues affecting public interests worldwide.

Mission and Activities

The mission of KEI is to carry out research and advocacy concerning important aspects of knowledge management, with a particular focus on the social implications of policies related to intellectual property, technology, and health care. KEI's activities include:

• Advocating for changes in international intellectual property law to ensure greater access to essential medicines in developing countries.
• Participating in policy discussions and negotiations at international forums such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
• Researching and publishing reports on patent policies, the economics of intellectual property, and the impact of trade agreements on public health and access to knowledge.
• Providing technical advice and support to governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders on issues related to intellectual property and public health.

Key Issues

KEI focuses on a range of issues at the intersection of intellectual property and public interest, including:

• Access to Medicines: KEI is a leading advocate for improving access to affordable medicines worldwide, particularly in relation to life-saving drugs for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis C.
• Patent Reform: The organization works on reforming patent laws to ensure they serve the public interest, encouraging innovation while preventing abusive practices that can hinder access to knowledge and essential technologies.
• Transparency: KEI campaigns for greater transparency in the negotiation of international trade agreements and the operations of pharmaceutical companies, especially concerning drug pricing and research and development costs.

Impact

KEI has played a significant role in shaping global debates and policies on intellectual property and access to medicines. Its advocacy has contributed to the adoption of more balanced approaches to intellectual property rights in various international agreements and national laws. KEI's work has also helped to increase awareness and understanding of the complex issues at the intersection of intellectual property, technology, and public health.

See Also

• Intellectual Property
• Access to Medicines
• Patent Law
• World Health Organization
• World Intellectual Property Organization
• World Trade Organization

Knowledge Ecology International Resources
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