What role does the International Bureau play in trademark registrations?

The International Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) plays a crucial role in international trademark registrations, primarily in the context of the Madrid System. Its main responsibilities include maintaining and recording records of international trademark registrations, as well as handling subsequent changes to the information about trademark holders. This includes updating addresses, changes in ownership, and other relevant modifications that need to be reflected in the trademark registration records.

Maintaining accurate records is vital for the legal status of trademarks, ensuring that the ownership and associated rights can be clearly established and enforced. By keeping track of this information, the International Bureau helps facilitate the process of trademark protection across different jurisdictions, serving as a centralized authority for these records.

While the other options pertain to different trademark-related activities, they do not accurately reflect the primary functions of the International Bureau. The Bureau does not conduct disputes directly, oversee the creation of new trademarks, or evaluate the originality of trademark applications; these responsibilities are typically managed by national offices or other relevant authorities in their respective territories.