Short Course: International Trade Law

Course Details

This course offers an in-depth, dynamic and applied knowledge of the regulatory framework of the multilateral trading system, and of the complex interplay between trade and other general public interests, such as public health, environmental protection, human rights, labour standards, development and investment.

The course will provide a general overview of the institutional and substantive law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and other trading arrangements around the globe. It will also cover the agreements operating under the WTO umbrella and avenues for resolving trade related disputes amongst States.

It will also include dedicated sessions on intersection between international trade and other areas of public international law including human rights, environmental and climate change law, sustainable development, and investment law.

The training course is delivered by leading academics and practitioners in the field. It offers a practical insight into the most recent developments, at a critical time for international trade law, by exploring and discussing the interconnectedness of global economic, social, and political systems.

By the end of the training course participants will:

• Have a strong practical understanding of the multilateral trading system, its fundamental principles (non-discrimination, consensus, transparency, access to dispute settlement) as well as the different agreements underpinning international trade;
• Be able to understand and critically discuss the legal frameworks that provide the foundation for regulating and promoting international trade while balancing economic interests with broader societal objectives and values;
• Be able to discuss the benefits and challenges of trade liberalization and think critically about governments' approaches in achieving trade liberalization, while continuing to pursue other public policy goals;
• Gain a critical understanding of the structures of the WTO and the policy implications of its activities, and of the role of the organization in global economic governance, alongside other international organisations.

 
Indicative course topics:

• Structures and institutions in international trade law
• The World trade Organisation (WTO)
• Regional and sub-regional trade agreements
• Trade and investment
• Trade and human rights including labour standards
• Trade and the environment
• Trade and sanctions
• Trade remedies

Course leader

Dr Julinda Beqiraj, Maurice Wohl Senior Fellow in European Law, Bingham Centre  for the Rule of Law, British Institute of International and Comparative Law.

Course format

The virtual course format will consist of a series of 10 sessions in which live (synchronous) teaching is offered via Zoom. Participants will be able to interact with the tutors and amongst themselves on screen.

Testimonials from Past Attendees

"A very meaningful course, well thought-of structure, good quality resource persons, very engaging and professionally delivered. My compliments to BIICL."
"The course was very interactive and insightful."
"I recommended this course to my other colleagues who work on WTO issues."

Training scholarships

We are delighted to be able to offer scholarships designed to enable individuals from communities currently under-represented in the legal field to access our world-class courses and benefit from unparalleled learning experiences.

Scholarships are aimed at 3 categories: individuals from communities and backgrounds that are under-represented in the legal field in the UK and abroad; individuals who have recently received a needs-based bursary from their university or further-education college and representatives from Small Charities, NGOs, and Community-Based Organisations.

Applications for training scholarships must be received at least three weeks ahead of the course start date (27 March 2026). Applications must be made via the online form and applications received via any other means will not be considered.

Find out more about training scholarships 

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