The module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the rules of the WTO and introduce students to major critical perspectives on international economic regulation. It is designed to develop an understanding of the global rules on trade between nations, resolution of trade disputes, and the conflict between trade and non-trade values, such as human rights, environment and development. The module will be useful for students interested in international business law and public international law.

(LO1) Demonstrate principles and techniques of advanced legal research

(LO2) Show an understanding of the relevant social, economic, political, historical, philosophical, ethical, scientific and cultural contexts within which Law of the World Trade Organization operates

(LO3) Identify, locate and retrieve source legal materials in Law of the World Trade Organization.

(LO4) Analyse, evaluate and interpret the principal source materials of the Law of the World Trade Organisation including national statutes, national, European and international law reports, treaties, directives and other relevant materials as appropriate

(LO5) Apply legal knowledge to a practical situation and draw reasoned conclusions supported by legal authority

(LO6) Synthesise information from primary legal sources to achieve detailed knowledge and understanding of the Law of the World Trade Organization

(LO7) Understand and employ English, European and international legal terminology, both orally and in writing, to explain and convey technical legal information at an advanced level

(S1) Develop critical analysis skills

(S2) Utilise problem-solving skills in complex theoretical and practical contexts

(S3) Develop time management and prioritisation skills by working to deadlines

(S4) Develop individual and group communication skills by seminar presentations

(S5) Develop oral discussion skills by participating in debates and problem-solving exercises

(S6) Take responsibility for their own learning

(S7) Develop their skills in reading, analysing and synthesising different viewpoints and presenting their findings/conclusions in clear, comprehensible, structured format, with detailed argumentation where appropriate

(S8) Be able to make a critical judgment of the merits of particular arguments and make a reasoned choice between alternative solutions or arguments

The module will explore the institutional aspects of WTO, its rules on goods and services, unfair trade practices, regulatory harmonisation, and dispute settlement. It will also examine the social and political implications of the WTO trade regime (the impact of trade on human rights, development, environment, and national sovereignty).

Teaching Method: Seminar

Scheduled Directed Student Hours: 11 x 2 Hours (22 hours)

Unscheduled Directed Student Hours: 178.

Description: Interactive seminars will run in every week (excluding reading week). Seminars will focus on the key issues raised by the module. Each seminar will have a bespoke, detailed, reading list alongside discussion points and questions to frame and support student learning. Students will be expected to prepare and deliver presentations during some of the seminars.

Attendance Recorded: Yes