World Intellectual Property Day is celebrated annually on April 26 to raise awareness of the role of intellectual property in encouraging innovation and creativity. This day promotes respect for intellectual property rights and highlights the importance of these rights in fostering economic growth.

Established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2000, the day focuses on various themes each year related to the impact of intellectual property on our daily lives. WIPO facilitates international cooperation in intellectual property protection among its member states.

The day is celebrated around the world with various events, including seminars, workshops, and contests aimed at encouraging creativity. WIPO reports that participation has been growing each year, demonstrating the global interest in intellectual property matters.

World Intellectual Property Day encourages not only awareness but also empowers creators such as artists, writers, and inventors to protect their works. This helps promote innovation and can lead to more diverse products and cultural experiences.

Each year, the celebration features a unique theme; for example, in 2021, the theme was 'IP and SMEs: Taking your ideas to market,' which underscored the role of intellectual property in empowering small and medium enterprises.

The day sees participation from a wide array of stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector. They unite to highlight the importance of intellectual property in fostering innovation and creativity.

In 2018, a 'Youth and IP' theme highlighted the need to engage the youth on key issues surrounding intellectual property, which is crucial as new generations become creators and innovators in their fields.

Celebrations of World Intellectual Property Day often include storytelling sessions that allow creators to share their experiences, inspiring others to understand and value intellectual property rights.

What do you think about the importance of protecting ideas and creativity in today's world?