Summary of content

This module is concerned with the study of the rules and principles of the World Trade Organization, its law-making and negotiation processes as well as the application of that law. It examines major aspects of the regulation of the global economy as it relates to trade through examination of the institutions and laws of the World Trade Organization, as well as analysing connected regulatory matters concerning the environment and sustainable development.

These issues are of special importance nowadays given the global shifts in economic and social life, including the rise of China as a global economic and political power and the utilisation of big data and AI. The war in Ukraine and the recent pandemic highlight even further the importance of the World Trade Organisation and international cooperation to address global challenges, especially emergencies.

The role of lawyers in society is changing - lawyers are increasingly expected to be pro-active in the prediction and prevention of unethical as well as unlawful behaviour across all areas of society. The delivery of the module will embed PRME principles including: developing graduates who care about social responsibility; developing learning and teaching which enables graduates to become responsible leaders and practitioners; and developing graduates who will advise businesses and other stakeholders to explore mutually beneficial responses to social and legal challenges.

The research on global economic inequality, international cooperation and world trade at the Department of Law and Economics provides a unique environment for the module, allowing collaboration amongst member of staff further enhancing the academic strengths of the module.

Module structure

Assessment methods