Many studies suggest that geographical indications (GIs) and designations of origin (DOs) can contribute to the preservation and transfer of traditional knowledge and know-how. In particular, GIs  and DOs have been identified as a potential tool to enhance local control over resources and promote the conservation of natural and cultural values. GIs and DOs do not only protect practices associated with food production, but they also make these knowledge and practice elements publicly available. In fact – contrary to other intellectual property rights – GOs allow for collective ownership. They are also associated both to cultural practices and geographic sites, thus supporting the values built on traditional knowledge. As a consequence, the legal recognition of GIs and GOs can provide an institutional tool for fostering knowledge-based products. In addition, the relevance of GOs for protecting traditional knowledge can be observed not only in advanced economies but also in developing countries.

Starting from these considerations, the paper looks at the use of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs in an attempt to determine whether they are an effective instruments of community governance. The article analyzes concrete examples to illustrate how this particular intellectual property regime on “collective rights” can be used to protect traditional knowledge or to prevent its misappropriation. In particular, the investigation focuses on how knowledge embedded in geographical indicators may provide and enhance shared knowledge assets.