(Il)legitimacy of international intellectual property regime?

Abstract The recent Covid-19 global health crisis not only brings into sharp relief the current problems afflicting international intellectual property regime (IIPR) but also calls question its legitimacy as an authority. Against this backdrop, article aims to launch investigation of IIPR, co-ordinative authority, designed protect IP rights without prejudice trade norms. Drawing on Raz’s service conception it explores whether IIPR lives up promises by enabling co-ordination between states over undermining initial balance which is founded, struck developing and developed countries, well protection IP- cum-trade domestic regulatory autonomy. It does so classifying historical evolution under three different phases: (i) foundation, (ii) before, (iii) after TRIPS-plus. Upon showing challenges inherent in undemocratic points success finding a conflicting interests before TRIPS-plus era. Later, underlines many that come with linking investment argues FTAs frequent regime-shifting activities put further pressure authority regime. Stressing importance democratic participation for any casts doubt IIPR’s concludes raising some overcome ongoing challenges.