The course starts with an introduction to the WTO and its basic principles, before turning to focus on the Dispute Settlement Mechanism. Participants are rapidly engaged in simulation exercises which allow them to further develop their practical knowledge and skills in the various stages of dispute settlement. An update on recent developments in the area of dispute settlement rounds off this week-long training course.

Although the group of participants is composed essentially of government officials from developing countries, with a large proportion from least-developed countries, some developed countries are also represented, given that this particular training activity is organized under Article 27.3 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes, which states that training is to be provided to all WTO Members.

This course is conducted in French under the guidance of the WTO Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation and with the active support of the WTO Legal Affairs Division and the Appellate Body Secretariat.

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