10 common misunderstandings about the WTO

Is it a dictatorial tool of the rich and powerful? Does it destroy jobs? Does it ignore the concerns of health, the environment and development?

Emphatically no. Criticisms of the WTO are often based on fundamental misunderstandings of the way the WTO works.

The debate will probably never end. People have different views of the pros and cons of the WTO’s “multilateral” trading system. Indeed, one of the most important reasons for having the system is to serve as a forum for countries to thrash out their differences on trade issues. Individuals can participate, not directly, but through their governments. However, it is important for the debate to be based on a proper understanding of how the system works. This booklet attempts to clear up 10 common misunderstandings.