Can a Gender Sensitive Approach to WTO Regulation Enhance Women's Contribution to the Global Economy?

Abstract

The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the leading global regulating authority with regard to international trade in goods and services. Through a network of multilateral agreements concluded by more than 150 countries it determines rules and disciplines affecting the entire global trade arena. Since its establishment, the WTO exercises an allegedly 'neutral' regulation policy, indifferent to gender, justified on grounds of desired equality. However, this 'neutral' regulation is criticized for pragmatically causing gender discrimination in certain cases, reinforcing it in others. In recent years, the global economic implications and cost of this policy are widely recognized. This article explores ways to bridge the gap between the two conflicting approaches, to enhance women's access to international trade and their contribution to the global economy.

Keywords: WTO, gender, international trade

JEL Classification: F10