INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS (IPRs)
Intellectual property plays an important role in standardization, especially in the telecommunications and electronic communications sector. Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) are very likely to be incorporated into ETSI standards and other deliverables, and in the preparation of those documents, IPR issues may arise. This tension between IPRs (destined for private, exclusive use) and standards (intended for free, collective use) is minimized by the ETSI IPR Policy. In this context, it is important for all parties involved in the ETSI standards-making process to be aware of their responsibilities and that there is good co-operation between all parties.
As an Institute, ETSI also owns certain IPRs on behalf of its members. These IPRs include the copyright of its standards, technical specifications etc., as well as certain marks.
Finally, ETSI's position as a recognized European standardization body does not exempt it, nor its members or its activities from the application of competition law. As a consequence, it is important for ETSI and its members to strictly comply with all laws on antitrust that relate to the conduct of their activities.