Research Summary
The multilateral trading system has played a critical role in ensuring stability and order in the global economy for more than 70 years. But it has recently been thrown into crisis. With the two dominant powers in the system—the United States and China—blatantly violating its rules, the established liberal trading order is in danger of collapse. As Canada Research Chair in Global Policy, Dr. Kristen Hopewell is analyzing how states are responding to the current trade crisis.
She and her research team are exploring the ongoing battle to “save the WTO” (World Trade Organization) as well as various reform efforts within the organization. Hopewell’s team is also examining how various actors are challenging the existing norms (contestation dynamics) and the tensions between those trying to preserve the current system and those fighting it. Their findings will contribute to global policy debates about free trade and the future of the global trading system.