Illicit: The Dark Trade--Must See TV

Last week we discussed how the theft of intellectual property (IP) is really an attack on innovation and ideas, two things that drive America's economy.

 

It's easy to cite statistics that underscore the severity of the problem. For example, the theft of IP through counterfeiting and piracy costs the U.S. economy $250 billion annually and have wiped out 750,000 jobs. It costs the global economy about $650 billion a year.

 

But it's hard to capture the human toll IP theft has on consumers, workers, businesses, and countries around the globe. That is, until now. Tomorrow night PBS will air an important special by National Geographic called Illicit--The Dark Trade.

 

This powerful film sweeps back the veil of secrecy shrouding the criminal networks behind the multibillion dollar global trade of illicit goods. It portrays in harrowing detail how fake pharmaceuticals sicken and kill individuals, ill-gotten gains fund other illegal activities, and stolen IP destroys jobs, livelihoods, and creative efforts.

 

These criminals are using sophisticated global distribution networks to peddle everything from fake medical devices and pharmaceuticals to toothpaste and DVDs. If you can make it, they can fake it, steal it, and distribute it. No one is safe.

 

The film underscores the urgent need for consumers, business leaders, and governments to protect innovation and creativity and prevent threats to public health and national security. We all have an important role to play in putting an end to these dangerous and costly crimes.

 

Governments around the world must protect copyrights, patents, and IP. Businesses must work to eliminate counterfeit products throughout the supply chain. And consumers must always be on the alert. They must send a strong message to criminals that they will not be rewarded for stealing from others.

 

There are three things you can do to help. End the demand for these illicit products by only purchasing legitimate goods from legitimate vendors. Encourage your elected officials to pass the PRO-IP Act--legislation that will toughen sentences for the crooks that commit these crimes and increase resources to fight them. Finally, get involved the business community's efforts to protect IP. Visit TheTrueCosts.org to learn how.

Illicit is a call to arms to everyone who respects creativity, innovation, and economic and human progress. The U.S. Chamber was proud to support its production. Watch it.

 

Illicit: The Dark Trade, premiering Wednesday, April 16, 2008, on PBS (check local listings).