Industrial Policy, National Security, and the Perilous Plight of the WTO

The WTO is facing an unprecedented crisis, one that threatens to critically erode its relevance and destabilize global trade. Some member states have become increasingly distrustful of other WTO members, invoking trade-restrictive measures in the name of economic security. Petros C. Mavroidis's new book provides insight into current international trade, national security, and environmental challenges facing the world community, of which the World Trade Organization (WTO) is at the epicenter. Even if the WTO overcame its current crisis, its adjudication branch is insufficiently equipped to address the aforementioned challenges and the WTO contract itself is in dire need of updating. Yet, as Mavroidis argues, ensuring the survival of the WTO is crucial for rebuilding the trust of the global trading community. In this direction, Mavroidis offers concrete proposals toward improving the function of the WTO and reigniting global collaboration.