In response to perceived problems with the grant of patents, and the evolving nature of technology and industry, there is on-going debate about, and reform of, patent systems around the world. The [[Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights|TRIPs]] agreement, developed by the [[World Trade Organization|WTO]] has led to the alignment of many patent systems with regard to certain controversial issues, such as what can be protected by patents and the issue of [[Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights#Access to essential medicines|compulsory licences]] in cases of national need. There is also an active community who oppose patents and who lobby for the abolishment of patent systems. | In response to perceived problems with the grant of patents, and the evolving nature of technology and industry, there is on-going debate about, and reform of, patent systems around the world. The [[Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights|TRIPs]] agreement, developed by the [[World Trade Organization|WTO]] has led to the alignment of many patent systems with regard to certain controversial issues, such as what can be protected by patents and the issue of [[Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights#Access to essential medicines|compulsory licences]] in cases of national need. There is also an active community who oppose patents and who lobby for the abolishment of patent systems. |