VIR25-4

This Virtual Introductory Trade Policy Course (VITPC) for LDCs will provide government officials from LDCs with a solid understanding of the functioning, structure and main principles and exceptions of the WTO, equip them with the ability to find relevant WTO-related information whenever needed, and provide them with a valuable network of contacts with trade policy professionals across WTO Members and the WTO Secretariat. A development-focused perspective will be implemented throughout the course.

The course will be delivered online through six modules – spanning over 7 weeks - with a mix of flexible guided self-study activities on a dedicated online platform and live sessions with interactive and hands-on practical exercises carried out together with fellow participants and WTO Secretariat staff. The programme will include opportunities to follow the day-to-day work of WTO bodies as well as exchanging with experienced delegates through activities such as roundtables. Participants will also benefit from continuous individual tutoring and support from WTO Secretariat staff throughout the course.

The course represents a Level 1 activity in the WTO's three-tiered Progressive Learning Strategy for Trade-Related Capacity Building. Upon successful completion, the course serves as a prerequisite for Level 2 courses. This activity will be conducted in English and is part of the WTO's Technical Assistance and Training Plan.