Why Are WTO Panels Taking Longer? And What Can Be Done About It?

Abstract

World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement panels have steadily taken longer to complete their work since the establishment of the WTO, but since 2005, the delays have sharply increased. The Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU) time frames for panel proceedings are problematic in light of the time and number of parties’ submissions. However, unexpected delays in panel work have become more frequent, which, if they continue to increase at their present rate, will offset reform of DSU time frames at other stages of the procedures. This article examines the reasons why delays have occurred and considers some possible solutions.