Short Course: International Trade Law

Course Outline

The training course in International Trade Law offers an in-depth, dynamic and applied knowledge of the regulatory framework of the multilateral trading system, and of the complex interplay between trade and other general public interests, such as public health, environmental protection, human rights, labour standards, development, investment etc.

After providing a general overview of the institutional and substantive law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and of the agreements operating under its umbrella, dedicated sessions of the course will explore the intersection between international trade and other areas of public international law in the light of existing international agreements and the WTO jurisprudence.

The training course is delivered by leading academics and practitioners in the field. It offers a practical insight into the most recent developments, at a critical time for international trade law, by exploring and discussing the interconnectedness of global economic, social, and political systems.

By the end of the training course participants will:

• Have a clear understanding of the structure, organisation and decision-making procedures of the WTO;
• Develop a strong practical understanding of the multilateral trading system, its fundamental principles (non-discrimination, consensus, transparency, access to dispute settlement) as well as the different agreements underpinning international trade;
• Be able to understand and critically discuss the legal frameworks that provide the foundation for regulating and promoting international trade while balancing economic interests with broader societal objectives and values;
• Be able to discuss the benefits and challenges of trade liberalization and think critically about governments' approaches in achieving trade liberalization, while continuing to pursue other public policy goals;
• Gain a critical knowledge of the policy implications of WTO's activities, and of the role of the organization in global economic governance, alongside other international organisations.

 
Course topics and Tutors

• The WTO I: institutional structure and basic principles
  Dr. Carlo Gamberale, Counsellor, Market Access Division, WTO
  
• The WTO II: overview of the main agreements - basic principles and differences
  Dr. Carlo Gamberale, Counsellor, Market Access Division, WTO
• The WTO III: dispute settlement and beyond
  Iryna Polovets, Advisor to Deputy Director-General, WTO
• Regional and sub-regional trade agreements
  Prof. Lorand Bartels, University of Cambridge & Counsel, Freshfields
• Trade, agriculture, food security and health
  Dr. Mariela de Amstalden University of Exeter
• Trade and investment
  Prof. Yarik Kryvoi Director of Investment Treaty Forum, BIICL
• Trade and climate change issues
  Prof. Dr. Gabrielle Marceau Senior Counsellor at WTO and BIICL Senior Honorary FellowTrade and sanctions
  
• Trade and sanctions
  Dr. Isabelle van Damme Partner at Van Bael &Bellis, Antigoni Mathaoiu, Associate at Van Bael & Bellis
• Trade remedies
  Jesse Kreier Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University Law Center 
• Trade and intellectual property
  John Clarke former head of the EU Delegation to the WTO and UN

Download the Programme 

Course leader

Dr Julinda Beqiraj, Maurice Wohl Senior Fellow in European Law, Bingham Centre for the Rule of Law, British Institute of International and Comparative Law.

Course format

The virtual course format will consist of a series of 10 sessions in which live (synchronous) teaching is offered via Zoom. Participants will be able to interact with the tutors and amongst themselves on screen.

Testimonials from Past Attendees

"A very meaningful course, well thought-of structure, good quality resource persons, very engaging and professionally delivered. My compliments to BIICL."

"The course was very interactive and insightful."

 "I recommended this course to my other colleagues who work on WTO issues."

Participants at BIICL short courses are also invited to join exclusive events for trainees following completion of the course.

Pricing and registration

The course cost is £775 per person.

This course has been postponed and will run at a later date.

Course Discounts

Member discount: 15% discount for individual members of BIICL
Details of individual memberships at BIICL 

Group discounts:

• 15% discount for groups of 3 or more attendees from NGO organisations or staff of government
• 15% discount for groups of 5 or more attendees from commercial organisations

To apply for any of the discounted rates, please Contact Us.

Training scholarships

The British Institute of International and Comparative Law is committed to equality and opportunity in the legal profession and to support greater engagement of under-represented groups in the legal profession.

In our efforts in this regard we are delighted to offer 3 scholarships for each of our short courses to participants from communities and backgrounds currently under-represented in the legal community.

Applications for training scholarships must be received at least three weeks ahead of the course start date (29 March 2024).

Find out more about training scholarships 

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