KMD24-2

The WTO Chairs Programme enhances knowledge and understanding of the multilateral trading system among academics, policy makers and civil society in developing countries and least developed countries by stimulating teaching, research, and public debate on international trade at universities and research institutions. Teams of trade experts at beneficiary universities are led by at least one university professor in law, economics or political science/international relations. At each beneficiary institution, the WTO Chairs is supported by several research and teaching assistants who actively participate in the implementation of the project. In total, about 160 individuals contribute to the implementation of research, training and outreach activities related to international trade. WTO support to the WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) holders is implemented through the provision of an annual grant (up to CHF 50,000) and close monitoring by the Secretariat of their performance under each of the three pillars (research, curriculum development, outreach) of the programme. A total of 15 universities are entitled to an annual grant in 2024 under MoUs between the WTO and these institutions. Up to 5 Chairs will be added in the first half of the year in order to transition to an intake on a rolling basis.