Publication

This paper provides a brief overview of the history of the World Trade Organization (WTO) as well as the stalemate that has affected the organization's Doha Round negotiations since 2001. The author argues that a lack of consensus between developed and developing states and the ambitious agenda of the Doha Round are the main reasons for the stalemate. He then contends that the ineffectiveness of the talks has pushed numerous countries to seek regional cooperation, something that has hampered multilateral negotiations. Finally, he suggests that the consequence of this is that there is a need for a rethink on the future of the WTO and its place in the global economy.