Opening the course, the Director of the WTO Legal Affairs Division, Jorge Castro, highlighted the programme’s unique learning environment. He told participants: “The goal of this course is not only to deepen your knowledge but also to strengthen your skills and confidence in navigating this complex rules-based system. To bring you closer to those who have participated directly in the system, we have invited a diverse group of experts who have litigated at the panel stage and in arbitrations in the past. Their practical perspectives will be an invaluable resource for you as you engage in the sessions.”
Key highlights of the course included attendance at a Dispute Settlement Body meeting, roundtable discussions on the ongoing reform of the dispute settlement system, and presentations by Geneva-based government officials and private practitioners with extensive experience in WTO litigation.
Over the five days, participants delved into the intricacies of WTO dispute settlement litigation through a blend of theoretical lectures and practical exercises. Sessions ranged from case preparation and panel procedures to the current situation of the appeal review, arbitration and compliance mechanisms.
A standout feature of this year’s training was a case study involving trade measures on AI-powered yachts, which looked at cybersecurity issues from the perspective of WTO rules. Participants engaged in drafting, presenting and defending arguments in a panel hearing setting.
Tehila Perez Varon, a participant from Israel’s Ministry of Economy and Industry, said: “The workshop broadened my horizons, helping me develop academic, theoretical and practical knowledge. The practical guidance provided was invaluable and will have a tremendous impact on improving my understanding of the dispute settlement system. Moreover, the close relationships formed with colleagues and the WTO Secretariat will be immensely helpful in the future.”
Yousaf Rasool, from Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, said: “This course allowed me to update my knowledge on the WTO’s ongoing efforts on dispute settlement reform. The presentations on the dispute settlement process and the moot court, in particular, were very helpful for applying theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, enabling us to simulate the roles of complainants, respondents, third parties and panel members.”
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