The Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (OHIM) was the previous name for the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). OHIM was an agency of the European Union, responsible for the registration of trademark and design rights throughout the European Union. Its primary mission was to foster and support the development of a single and cohesive internal market by harmonizing intellectual property rights across the member states.
OHIM played a crucial role in managing the Community Trade Mark (CTM) system, which allowed businesses and individuals to register a single trademark that would be valid across all EU member states. It provided a centralized registration process, making it easier and more efficient for trademark holders to protect their intellectual property rights throughout the EU.
Furthermore, OHIM operated a dynamic and comprehensive online database, offering information on registered trademarks and designs. Through this database, OHIM facilitated searches, investigations, and comparative studies, assisting users in their trademark and design management endeavors.
The organization also worked towards promoting awareness and understanding of intellectual property rights in the European Union. OHIM provided training and guidance to businesses, legal professionals, and the general public on various aspects of trademark and design protection. Additionally, OHIM collaborated with national IP offices, international organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of IP protection systems.
In December 2015, OHIM was renamed the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) to better reflect its role within the European Union framework and its dedication to upholding and promoting intellectual property rights.
