Normative conditions to make WTO law more responsive to the needs of developing countries

With the vast majority of WTO Members being developing countries, their integration is perhaps the most critical issue for the future success of the multilateral trading system. The widespread perception among developing countries that multilateral rules do not effectively respond to their interests was a main driver for the launch of the Doha Development Round in 2001. However, while Members have repeatedly confirmed their commitment to development, progress in the round has been disappointing. This study devises a reform proposal for special and differential treatment. Following an analysis of the current special and differential treatment provisions, the author shows that addressing differences among developing countries and specifying their needs are critical to any reform. This applies as much to the traditional market access agenda as to the area of WTO rules. Differentiation and graduation are core elements of any reform concept that aims to respond more effectively to the needs of developing countries.