This Guide is produced by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a United Nations specialized agency dedicated to the promotion of innovation and creativity for the economic, social and cultural development of all countries, through a balanced and effective international intellectual property (IP) system. WIPO is working with those involved in the organization of cultural events, notably folk, arts and cultural festivals, to develop and apply appropriate strategies to deal with the various IP issues that can arise before, during and after those events. The program of WIPO’s Traditional Knowledge Division addresses the protection of the traditional knowledge (TK) and traditional cultural expressions (TCEs) of indigenous peoples and local communities, which are frequently displayed, represented and shared at festivals around the globe.