The Role of the World Trade Organization in Global Governance

Since its creation in January 1995, the World Trade Organization has expanded the reach of trade rules deep into the regulatory structure of almost 140 sovereign states. As a result, it has found itself at the centre of controversy in areas that are well outside the domain of traditional trade policy. Although there are demands for reform the architects of the WTO are proud of having created what they consider to be a major achievement in institutionalised global economic co-operation. The central question is how to respond to the pressures now falling on the WTO system while ensuring the preservation of a trading system that has led to unprecedented growth in the world economy. This question is addressed in this book. A number of prominent personalities representing a broad spectrum of interests in the field of international policy-making, and with a strong interest in a well-functioning trading system, offer their views on the role of the WTO in Global Governance.