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Bachelor’s Student, Islamic Studies and Economics, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
The consequences of accession or non-accession of developing countries to the World Trade Organization (WTO) have been widely discussed in the literature, often highlighting the inefficiencies of the organization, the political and economic power of developed countries, and their influence over WTO decision-making processes. This study assumes that globalization and the increasing membership of countries in the WTO is an upward trend, rendering membership for many nations inevitable. However, as some of the WTO’s objectives align with the economic goals of developing countries, effective engagement through timely and strategic policymaking can lead to outcomes such as efficient and equitable utilization of natural resources, creation of new advantages and opportunities for all, eradication of poverty, corruption, and discrimination, and preservation of economic independence. Consequently, it is essential to examine and align the organization’s mechanisms with the economic foundations of these countries. The central research question is: “What are the benefits and costs of WTO membership for developing countries, and what measures should they take to maximize opportunities while minimizing the associated costs?” Based on a descriptive-analytical approach and theoretical assumptions drawn from international economics, and with a thorough understanding of the WTO framework, this study hypothesizes that while the organization’s effectiveness is constrained due to the influence of developed nations in establishing equitable and efficient trade relations, flexible policies and regulations provide avenues to minimize membership costs.
Sadeghi Shahdani,M. , Kargar,A. and Javanjafari,A. (2025). Constructive Engagement of the World Trade Organization with Developing Countries. International Organization, 3(1), 29-52.
MLA
Sadeghi Shahdani,M. , , Kargar,A. , and Javanjafari,A. . "Constructive Engagement of the World Trade Organization with Developing Countries", International Organization, 3, 1, 2025, 29-52.
HARVARD
Sadeghi Shahdani M., Kargar A., Javanjafari A. (2025). 'Constructive Engagement of the World Trade Organization with Developing Countries', International Organization, 3(1), pp. 29-52.
CHICAGO
M. Sadeghi Shahdani, A. Kargar and A. Javanjafari, "Constructive Engagement of the World Trade Organization with Developing Countries," International Organization, 3 1 (2025): 29-52,
VANCOUVER
Sadeghi Shahdani M., Kargar A., Javanjafari A. Constructive Engagement of the World Trade Organization with Developing Countries. International Organization, 2025; 3(1): 29-52.