How not to negotiate: the case of trade multilateralism

Abstract Trade multilateralism would not have featured as a case of ‘abject failure’ had this special issue been planned in 2001. But since then, the World Organization (WTO) has unfortunately become an almost perfect example how to negotiate, even when one takes into account limited successes 12th ministerial conference June 2022. This article proceeds four steps. The first section outlines multiple levels malfunction and breakdown organization. second part argues that variety negotiation failures are responsible for dire straits which WTO finds itself today. I identify three broad categories bargaining member-driven organization: mishaps led Doha deadlocks; muddles members got themselves while updating institutional practices WTO; on membership find negotiated solutions new systemic challenges. third reflects interaction my own research with world policy. fourth concluding presents main ‘Dos’ ‘Don'ts’ follow from analysis, offers some further policy recommendations.