We begin this week with a huge thank you to Anastasiia Kyrylenko, who is departing the IPKat after more than five years of contributions. She joined as an InternKat in early 2020 while she was completing her PhD in IP Law. She continued as a GuestKat from 2021, sharing her research and expertise on the law of geographical indications (along with many other IP topics). Anastasiia also spent the last six months as our book review editor.

Anastasiia said goodbye last week with a fascinating post about the history of the Queso Manchego geographical indication. She has been an awesome member of the IPKat team. Thank you and all the best with your next adventures!

With Anastasiia's departure, this Kat will be taking on the role of book review editor and looks forward to keeping readers informed about the latest publications in the world of IP.

IP Mediation Conference 2025

The Boards of Appeal of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) will host the fifth edition of the IP Mediation Conference on 16-17 October 2025 in Malta. This hybrid event will offer both in-person and online participation. The event will be an opportunity to exchange knowledge and best practices for mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. Details and registration here.

ALAI European Author’s Right Award

The International Literary and Artistic Association (ALAI), supported by the European Grouping of Societies of Authors and Composers (GESAC), has launched the 8th edition of the European Authors’ Right Award. The competition is open to any law student or researcher under the age of 35 years currently studying or researching authors’ rights/copyright, closing 14 November 2025. The prize of €2,000 is awarded annually to the best essay related to authors’ rights/copyright with a European dimension. Full eligibility criteria and submission details here.

Call for Applications: WIPO Training, Mentoring and Matchmaking Program

A call for applications is now open for the next cycle (2025-2026) of the WIPO Training, Mentoring and Matchmaking Program on Intellectual Property for Women Entrepreneurs from Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. This cycle will be addressed at Indigenous, as well as local community women entrepreneurs from Mexico, Central America, and the Dominican Republic. Applications close on 18 July 2025. Details and link to the application form here.

Source: https://ipkitten.blogspot.com/2025/07/wednesday-whimsies.html