Competere Joins Global Coalition for World Intellectual Property Day 2026

Competere is pleased to join 93 think tanks and advocacy organisations across 42 countries in signing a letter marking the World Intellectual Property Day 2026. This year’s theme, “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate,” highlights the role of intellectual property rights in driving creativity, innovation, and growth across the sports sector and beyond. 

Download the letter

World Intellectual Property Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the role that intellectual property rights plays across modern society. They support creativity and investment, not only in sports but across industries. From athletes and event organizers to technology developers and fans, IP systems enable the protection of ideas and the creation of value, encouraging continuous innovation.

A Shared Commitment to Innovation and Free Enterprise

By endorsing this joint letter, We reaffirm our commitment to a global framework where intellectual property rights are recognized as a cornerstone of free enterprise. Contrary to narratives that portray IP as a barrier to innovation, robust IP protections create the conditions for individuals and businesses to invest, collaborate, and share knowledge on their own terms.

A well-functioning IP system ensures that creativity—whether in the form of inventions, artistic works, or technological solutions—is rewarded and protected. This, in turn, drives competition, stimulates entrepreneurship, and supports long-term economic growth.

Evidence confirms this link. The 2025 International Property Rights Index (IPRI), covering countries that represent 93% of the global population and 98% of GDP, highlights a strong correlation between secure property rights and prosperity. Income levels, innovation capacity, and entrepreneurship all tend to be significantly higher in countries with robust IP frameworks.

Economic and Social Impact

Intellectual property is a key driver of modern economies, supporting jobs, investment, and competitiveness. It also plays a crucial role in sectors such as healthcare, where it has enabled the development of life-saving medicines and advanced technologies, improving both life expectancy and quality of life.

At the same time, effective IP systems facilitate technology transfer and strengthen local capabilities, contributing to more resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystems.

A Shared Commitment

The joint letter underscores the importance of international cooperation to ensure that IP systems remain balanced, effective, and forward-looking.

On World Intellectual Property Day 2026, We stand with our global partners in reaffirming a clear message: protecting intellectual property means supporting innovation, empowering people, and fostering sustainable economic growth.