The role of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in promoting free trade (OCR A-Level Economics): Model Answers

Introduction

• Define free trade and the role of the WTO.
• Outline the structure of the essay, including the main arguments for and against the WTO's role in promoting free trade.

Section	Content
1. The Role of the WTO	- Establishment and Objectives: Briefly discuss the founding of the WTO and its primary objectives. - Trade Agreements: Explain how the WTO facilitates global trade through agreements like GATT, the TFA, and others. - Dispute Resolution: Describe the WTO's role in resolving trade disputes and enforcing trade rules.
2. Arguments Supporting the WTO's Role in Promoting Free Trade	- Reduction of Trade Barriers: Analysis of how the WTO has successfully reduced tariffs and non-tariff barriers. - Trade Liberalisation: Discuss the role of the WTO in encouraging trade liberalisation and its impact on global trade flows. - Economic Growth: Evaluate the correlation between WTO membership and economic growth in member countries.
3. Arguments Against the WTO's Role in Promoting Free Trade	- Developed vs. Developing Countries: Analyse criticisms regarding the unequal benefits for developed vs. developing countries. - Sovereignty Issues: Discuss concerns about national sovereignty and policy autonomy. - Environmental and Social Concerns: Evaluate criticisms related to environmental degradation and social issues as a result of WTO policies.

| 4. Case Studies | - Successful Examples: Provide examples where WTO policies have significantly benefited countries (e.g., China's accession to the WTO).
- Criticisms and Failures: Include case studies where WTO policies have faced significant criticism or failure (e.g., issues faced by small economies or protests against WTO rules). | | 5. Evaluation | - Balanced View: Weigh the positive and negative impacts of the WTO on free trade.
- Long-term Impact: Assess the long-term effects of the WTO's policies on global trade and economic development.
- Reforms and Improvements: Suggest potential reforms to address criticisms and enhance the WTO's effectiveness in promoting free trade. |

Conclusion

• Summarise the key points discussed.
• Restate the evaluation of the WTO's role in promoting free trade.
• Offer a final judgement on whether the WTO has been successful overall in its mission to promote free trade.

Top 3 Tips to Achieve 40/40 in the Essay:

Tip Number	Tip
1	Depth of Analysis:- Ensure each point is deeply analysed. -Provide detailed explanations and real-world examples to support your arguments. -Avoid superficial treatment of complex issues and dive into the nuances of the WTO's impact.
2	Balanced Evaluation:- Present a well-rounded evaluation that not only discusses the positive aspects but also critically addresses the criticisms and limitations of the WTO. -Use evidence from various sources to back your evaluation, and make sure to address counterarguments effectively.
3	Clear Structure and Coherence:- Maintain a clear and logical structure throughout the essay. -Each section should flow naturally into the next, and arguments should be presented coherently. -Use headings and subheadings to organise content and ensure that transitions between points are smooth.