European patents step closer Auteur institution GRAIN Périodique/Collection Seedling | Vol. 14(3); 2 - 5; 4 p. Date 1997 Source IUCN (ID: ANA-061680) Éditeur | Lieu de publication GRAIN - Genetic Resources Action International | Barcelona, Spain Langue Anglais Pays/Territoire Union européenne Sujet Espèces sauvages et écosystèmes Mot clé Droits de propriété intellectuelle/brevets Biotechnologie Éthique et environnement Résumé Challenging the global trend to strengthen intellectual property rights regimes remains a high priority for those campaigning against the privatisation of life. The EU is currently defining its own reinterpretation of the WTO TRIPs agreement with proposed legislation dubbed, 'The Life Patents Directive'. The proposals which go way beyond the minimum requirements under TRIPS would allow patenting of plants, animals and parts of humans. Here GRAIN assesses recent developments in Europe and looks at the international implications.