Russia on the way to the World Trade Organization

Abstract

Russia entered into negotiations aimed at securing its membership of the World Trade Organization in July 1995. This article examines the problems thatface the country as it tries to meet the conditions of membership while grappling with economic transition and political instability at home. It looks at the general question of transition to a liberal international economy and at the particular dfficulties associated with trade in goods and services and with the protection of intellectual property rights. While acknowledging the long-term benefits offered by 14TO membership, the author emphasizes the particular difficulties Russiafaces in the short term and makes the casefor compromise agreements to enable Russia to join the organization without paying an unacceptably high pricefor the privilege.