John H. Jackson WTO Institution Builder

Abstract

John H. Jackson was a mentor, an advisor, a role model and a dear friend to me since I had the privilege of studying with him at the University of Michigan thirty five years ago. I strive to teach the way he taught me, to write the way that he wrote – never measuring up to his exacting standards, but always aiming for the clarity of thought, analytical precision and passionate vision for the future that he brought to his work. Most people think of academics as distant from policy making in the real world, but John was an exception. He was very influential with trade policy makers, in the USA and around the world, not only because of his prolific writings and speeches, but more importantly, because he actively engaged with them in Geneva and capitals. This is the story of perhaps his greatest contribution: to the establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO). John’s goal ultimately was to create and maintain a strong multilateral trading system. He believed the best way to do that was through a vibrant, rules-based institution – an international organization and a judicialized dispute settlement system. He saw his dream come true.