WTO Seeking Stopgap for Appeals Panel Loss, Director-General Says

The transcript discusses the challenges faced by the WTO due to the absence of the appellate panel, which affects the normal dispute resolution process. Two main conversations are happening in Geneva: one to modify the existing system and another to explore alternative mechanisms. Some countries, like the EU and China, are considering alternative arbitration processes. The US is not likely to participate in these interim solutions due to significant grievances with the appellate body. The WTO is open to exploring new ideas to address these concerns and potentially reconcile with the US.

What is the main issue faced by the WTO due to the absence of the appellate panel?

• The WTO has lost its funding.

• Members are unable to hold meetings.

• The WTO has been dissolved.

• Members cannot follow the normal dispute resolution process.

Which countries are proposing alternative arbitration processes as an interim solution?

• United States and Canada

• Australia and Japan

• India and Brazil

• European countries and China

Why might the interim solutions not fully resolve the WTO's issues?

• They are too expensive to implement.

• They exclude the United States, the largest economy.

• They are not legally binding.

• They require unanimous approval from all members.

What is the main concern of the United States regarding the appellate body function?

• The appellate body is too expensive.

• The appellate body is biased.

• The appellate body requires significant changes.

• The appellate body is too slow.

What is the attitude of WTO members in Geneva towards finding a solution?

• They are resistant to change.

• They are open-minded and willing to explore new ideas.

• They are indifferent to the issue.

• They are focused on other priorities.