DDG Ellard has underscored the significant role of parliaments in bridging international institutions and the public, emphasizing their involvement in World Trade Organization (WTO) matters. She highlighted that parliamentary engagement is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of the WTO's work.
Ellard pointed out current priorities, notably the implementation of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted in June 2022. This agreement requires acceptance by 111 WTO members—two-thirds of its membership—to come into force. So far, 83 members have accepted it, leaving 28 more needed for activation. She expressed appreciation to those who have ratified it and urged others to act swiftly.
Progress at MC13 on a subsequent part of the fisheries subsidies agreement was also noted by Ellard. The focus is on addressing overcapacity and overfishing, with negotiations nearing consensus after over two decades of discussions. Efforts continue to finalize a comprehensive agreement based on document TN/RL/W/279, aiming to establish strong disciplines while offering flexibility for developing members.
In preparation for the WTO's July 2024 General Council meeting, Ellard remarked, “We are very close,” calling on political leaders to engage actively in finalizing the agreement by year-end.
On dispute settlement reform, she praised Ambassador Usha Dwarka-Canabady from Mauritius and six co-facilitator experts for advancing negotiations towards a fully functioning system by 2024 as mandated at MC12 and MC13. Key areas include appeal/review processes and accessibility for developing members.
Despite challenges with the Appellate Body not functioning, Ellard emphasized that disputes continue to be brought before the WTO. In 2024 alone, seven new disputes were initiated alongside ongoing panel proceedings.
Ellard also highlighted efforts to build multilateral consensus around incorporating outcomes from plurilateral initiatives into WTO rules. These include the Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement—the first global accord on investment facilitation—and results from the Joint Statement Initiative on E-commerce. While broad support exists for these texts, some participants are still conducting internal consultations.
The e-commerce initiative continues under co-convenors' guidance as they determine future steps.