Discuss the Main Achievements of the World Trade Organization in the Promotion of Sustainable Development and Explore the Potential and Perspectives for Further Improvement.

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The World Trade Organization (WTO) has become one of the most interesting, and controversial, intergovernmental organizations of our times. Since its establishment in 1995 its objectives have become more ambitious and extensive to bring about the changes and effects of globalization as well as to conform to the increasing interest of nations to pursue development in a sustainable way. In its founding agreement the WTO recognizes sustainable development as a central principle, and currently it is the main objective in all subjects of negotiation in the undergoing Doha Development Round. The organization has greatly contributed to global integration, facilitating relations in the field of trade and economic venture between developed and developing nations, and among nations of the same group. However, notwithstanding the positive impact of trade and the WTO on economic growth, there is considerable controversy regarding the effects on the environment, health, and other social factors. Criticisms come from both developed and developing countries. At the heart of these issues is the question of what role should the WTO play in relation to sustainable development? Could the WTO become more useful in promoting sustainable development by enforcing or creating standards that achieve social and environmental goals? In this paper I would start with a brief description of the organization since the establishment of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) in 1947, until the formal institutionalization of the WTO in the mid-1990s. To determine the achievements of the organization in promoting sustainable development I will focus on three dispute settlement rulings involving environmental and public health measures. The WTO was officially established in 1995 under the Marrakech Agreement, replacing the GATT which was signed in 1947. The GATT regulated trade

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