Working Paper: CEPR ID: DP15425
Authors: Bernard Hoekman; Petros C. Mavroidis; Maarja Saluste
Abstract: This paper presents salient facts on the performance of WTO dispute settlement, using an updated dataset on cases adjudicated between 1992 and mid 2020. The dataset provides a comprehensive compilation of information on WTO disputes, including complainants, respondents and third parties; the substantive matters tabled; the WTO provisions invoked; the claims that are accepted or rejected by adjudicating bodies; the time involved to complete the consultation, panel and appeal (Appellate Body) stages; and the identity of panelists and how they were appointed. We highlight elements of the operation of the system that are salient to WTO reform discussions, while drawing attention to the richness of the dataset by highlighting stylized facts in the hope others will use the data to investigate specific research questions and hypotheses.
Keywords: WTO; Trade Disputes; Conflict Resolution; Panels; Appellate Body
JEL Codes: F13; F51; K40
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| WTO establishment (F13) | increase in dispute resolution activity (J52) |
| market size (L25) | likelihood of being involved in trade disputes (F14) |
| economic power (P26) | increased participation in dispute settlement (D74) |
| composition of panels and appointment process (D72) | outcomes of disputes (J52) |
| average duration of dispute resolution processes (K41) | compliance and enforcement outcomes (K40) |