How does the WTO explain itself?

ExploreThe WTO in briefto learn more about the organization's history and goals.Be sure to read the10 things the WTO can dopage.Then answer the questions that follow.

1

What assurance does the WTO seek to give international producers and consumers?

2

What is "at the heart" of the WTO system?

3

How many member countries are in the WTO? (See the Organization page.)

4

Describe the WTO's main trade agreement, The General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT). (Hint: You will find a full discussion of GATT inthe Agreements page.)

5

Briefly describe one benefit the WTO emphasizes about the trade agreements it produces.

Some accusations against the WTO

Protests against importing timberharvested from Sarawak, Malaysia.

Now that you have examined the WTO's description of its history and mission, let's explore specific criticisms leveled against the WTO.Some of the most common criticisms concern its impact on less-developed countries and the environment.Consider the perspectives shared inThird World Traveler,The truth behind the WTO, andWTO Explainedplus some responses from theWTO. Thenanswer the following questions.

1

Summarize three specific criticisms of the WTO and briefly predict the WTO's possible defense against these accusations.

2

What specific examples doesThird World Travelergive of the WTO's record on health and the environment?

3

Why have there been organized protests against WTO policies?

4

How does the WTO respond to the charge that they are anti-environment or "anti-green"?