MASTER CLASS ON INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW IN PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL LAW IN THE CONTEXT OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs)

On 27 October this year, a masterclass was held at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy for third-year students of the Faculty of International Law, as part of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the aim of enhancing students’ knowledge in the field of intellectual property law. The master class was organised by Professor Dilfuza Imamova of the Department of Civil Law and International Private Law Disciplines with the aim of deepening students’ theoretical knowledge, developing their practical skills and enhancing their professional training.

The invited expert was Muhammadali Makhmudov, Managing Partner of the leading law firm Legalmax, which specialises in the registration, commercialisation, and protection of intellectual property, as well as a lawyer and patent attorney.

During the master class, Muhammadali Makhmudov provided a detailed overview of the main objects of intellectual property, including industrial property, copyright, and means of individualisation. Drawing on specific examples from his legal practice, he addressed the particular features of the legal protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, as well as issues related to their commercialisation. Particular attention was paid to international legal instruments governing intellectual property and their role in contemporary law enforcement practice.

Students demonstrated a high level of interest in the issues discussed, actively participated in the discussion, and asked questions concerning the practical aspects of intellectual property law, to which they received comprehensive and substantive answers.

The master class contributes to the achievement of SDG 4, “Quality Education,” which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. In particular, the event is consistent with Target 4.4, which seeks to substantially increase the number of young people and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship. The participation of a practising intellectual property specialist contributes to the development of students’ professional competencies and the enhancement of their practical knowledge.

Furthermore, the master class contributes to the achievement of SDG 16, “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions,” particularly Target 16.3, which aims to promote the rule of law and ensure equal access to justice for all. The discussion of issues relating to the legal protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights contributes to fostering the legal awareness of future lawyers and enhancing their understanding of the importance of effective mechanisms for the protection of rights.

The event is also aligned with SDG 17, “Partnerships for the Goals,” particularly Target 17.6, which provides for strengthening international cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. Cooperation between the University and a representative of the legal profession promotes the exchange of experience, the development of practice-oriented education, and the strengthening of links between academia and legal practice.

The master class made a significant contribution to improving the educational process, developing students’ professional competencies, and strengthening cooperation between the University and the legal community in the context of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.