Episode 68 – Trade, National Security, and the WTO Walk Into a Bar

Welcome to Trade Splaining – the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life... without putting you to sleep.

In this special WTO Public Forum edition, your hosts, Rob and Ardian, dive deep into national security, global trade, and even kebabs. Episode 68 brings a lively discussion with special guests Dr. Mona Paulson from the London School of Economics and Professor Greg Messenger from the University of Bristol. This episode is packed with insights on the evolving dynamics of global trade, dispute resolution, and the intersection of trade and national security.

Episode Highlights:

- What’s New at the WTO Public Forum?: Mona and Greg give us the scoop from the heart of Geneva. From re-globalization to security exceptions, we get an insider look at what global leaders and policymakers are focusing on in 2024.

- National Security & Trade – A Growing Tension: Explore how national security is increasingly used as a rationale for trade decisions. Is it a legitimate concern or just an excuse for protectionism? Greg and Mona dissect the legal and political implications.

- Dispute Settlement Crisis at the WTO: With the U.S. absent from key discussions and a massive drop in disputes, is the WTO’s future in jeopardy? Our guests weigh in on the future of multilateralism and whether informal agreements are the new way forward.

- Climate Change and Trade: Developing countries are pushing for climate action within the WTO, but how do we reconcile economic security with environmental protection? Hear from our experts on how the global trade system is adapting to these urgent challenges.

- Is the WTO Appellate Body Done For?: With the U.S. blocking new appointments, how will trade disputes be settled? The rise of unilateral actions and side agreements points to a modular future, but what does that mean for global trade governance?

Key Quotes:

- "The WTO is at an inflection point – it's not about going back to normal, it's about moving forward with a new, inclusive vision for global trade."

- "National security has become the 'get-out-of-jail-free card' for trade restrictions. But is it really justified, or are we just seeing a rise in protectionism?"

About Our Guests:

- Dr. Mona Paulson: Assistant Professor at LSE, specializing in international economic law and trade policy. Her research delves into the intersections of trade, development, and economic security.

- Professor Greg Messenger: Trade law expert at the University of Bristol, co-director of the Trade and Public Policy Network (TAP), and advisor on trade and sustainable development issues in the UK.

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Listen, laugh, and learn – all in under an hour!