Means of individualization in Russia
Which Russian IP rights are covered by the notion “means of individualization”?
In Russian law, all IP rights are divided into two large groups:
- Results of intellectual activity and
- Means of individualization.
Means of individualization include:
- trademarks (service marks);
- company names;
- appellations of origin of goods;
- geographical indications;
- commercial designations (trade names).
Means of individualization serve to differentiate a business or its goods or services and are subject to legal protection on a par with results of intellectual activity. Specific features of legal protection provided to each IP right are regulated by separate sections in the Russian Civil Code.