Governments
can use the WTO to resist lobbying
This
is a natural result of the “rounds” type of negotiation (i.e.
negotiations that encompass a broad range of sectors).
The
outcome of a trade round has to be a balance of interests. Governments
can find it easier to reject pressure from particular lobbying groups
by arguing that it had to accept the overall package in the interests
of the country as a whole.
A
related misunderstanding is about the WTO’s membership. The WTO is an
organization of governments.
The
private sector, non-governmental organizations and other lobbying
groups do not participate in WTO activities except in special events
such as seminars and symposiums.
They
can only exert their influence on WTO decisions through their
governments.
< Previous
10
Misunderstandings menu
Next >
|
