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Efficiency Gains and Time-savings of Permanent Panels in the WTO Dispute Settlement

Author

Listed:
  • Johannesson, Louise

    (Research Institute of Industrial Economics (IFN))

Abstract

The dispute settlement mechanism (DSM) is today the most active dispute resolution forum in the world. However, its success has also led to increased processing time of disputes, which, in turn, increases the cost of using the World Trade Organization (WTO) as a way to resolve trade conflicts. I investigate whether the DSM can be improved by introducing a permanent panel of judges, to replace the current ad hoc system of appointing new judges for each dispute. I find mixed results, but one aspect that could speed up the process is that permanent judges develop established work relations and working methods.

Suggested Citation

  • Johannesson, Louise, 2018. "Efficiency Gains and Time-savings of Permanent Panels in the WTO Dispute Settlement," Working Paper Series 1219, Research Institute of Industrial Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:hhs:iuiwop:1219
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Johannesson, Louise & Mavroidis, Petros C., 2015. "Black Cat, White Cat: The Identity of the WTO Judges," Working Paper Series 1066, Research Institute of Industrial Economics.
    2. Thomas Cottier, 2003. "The WTO Permanent Panel Body: a Bridge Too Far?," Journal of International Economic Law, Oxford University Press, vol. 6(1), pages 187-202, March.
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    4. Horn, Henrik, 2013. "The Time WTO Panels Require to Issue Reports," Working Paper Series 979, Research Institute of Industrial Economics.
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    7. Marc L. Busch & Krzysztof J. Pelc, 2009. "Does the WTO Need a Permanent Body of Panelists?," Journal of International Economic Law, Oxford University Press, vol. 12(3), pages 579-594, September.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • F13 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade Policy; International Trade Organizations
    • K41 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Litigation Process

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