Sammendrag
Synopsis
This thesis discusses the international patent law system, in particular the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects on Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), in relation to inter alia development prospects in South Africa. The links between patents, high drug prices and access to HIV/AIDS drugs are investigated. The theoretical foundations for the patent law system are explored and discussed in relation to the concept of national innovation systems and the impact of the sub-Saharan HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Keywords: Intellectual property rights, national innovation system, HIV/AIDS