what is the structure of world trade organisation
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is a global international organization that deals with the rules of trade between nations. Its main goal is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible. The structure of the WTO comprises a hierarchy of distinct bodies, each with its own role and responsibilities. The main components of the WTO structure include:
1. Ministerial Conference: The highest decision-making body in the WTO, the Ministerial Conference meets at least every two years and is responsible for making major decisions concerning WTO policies and agreements. It is composed of representatives from all WTO member countries.
2. General Council: The General Council is the WTO's main decision-making body that meets more frequently to carry out the functions of the organization. It is composed of representatives from all WTO members and has the authority to act on behalf of the Ministerial Conference when it is not in session. The General Council also convenes as the Dispute Settlement Body and the Trade Policy Review Body.
3. Committees and Sub-Committees: Various committees, sub-committees, and working groups exist within the WTO to handle specific issues and aspects of international trade. Some of the key committees include the Council for Trade in Goods, the Council for Trade in Services, the Council for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), the Committee on Trade and Development, and the Committee on Trade and Environment.
4. Secretariat: Headed by the Director-General, the WTO Secretariat is responsible for carrying out the day-to-day administrative functions and providing technical support to the various WTO bodies. The Secretariat also helps member countries with technical assistance, capacity-building, and training in various aspects of trade.
5. Appellate Body: The Appellate Body is an independent body that is responsible for hearing appeals against dispute settlement panel decisions. It is composed of seven members with expertise in international trade, law, and policy, who are appointed for four-year terms by the Dispute Settlement Body.
6. Panel of Experts: In case of disputes, independent panels of experts are formed to provide legal and factual analysis and recommendations to the Dispute Settlement Body. These panels are typically composed of three or five experts, depending on the complexity and importance of the dispute.
7. Director-General: The Director-General is the chief executive officer of the WTO and is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the organization. The Director-General is appointed by the Ministerial Conference for a term of four years and serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the General Council, Dispute Settlement Body, and Trade Policy Review Body.
Overall, the structure of the WTO aims to facilitate dialogue, cooperation, and negotiation among its member countries to ensure a stable and predictable global trading system.