Global Inequality as a Key Impediment to the Doha Round 1

This lecture was originally presented on September 17th, 2022, by Mpho Nyamathe, Vice-Chair of the Political Theory Student Research Committee of the International Association for Political Science Students, and BA Candidate in Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg.

This lecture will highlight some of the prominent impediments to the Doha Development Round. Although inequality is a pervasive theme in the global political economy, the Doha Round is characterised by a contemporary desire for equal economic development. Having said that, issues pertaining to trade facilitation deny developing countries from achieving higher levels of trade. As a result, inefficient trade facilitation becomes a cost for many, especially when considering the interconnectedness of the global political economy. Similarly, developed countries are reluctant to implement agricultural subsidies and tariffs, even though this change could potentially increase global trade. Taking all of this into consideration, it is clear that the WTO should focus on global rebalancing. The WTO should demand accountability among all states, irrespective of their position as a superpower. Even though some experts call for the dismissal of the Doha Round, one cannot ignore the severe cost of a failed round. For example, the WTO would lose its legitimacy as a central organ for international trade. More specifically, African countries will not subject themselves to the rules of trade if their interests are constantly neglected in the face of international trade. Therefore, a successful Development round increases the chances of equal development and mutual benefit in an unjust global political economy.


Presenter: Mpho Nyamathe
Vice-Chair of the Political Theory Student Research Committee
BA Candidate in Politics and International Relations, University of Johannesburg


The International Association for Political Science Students (IAPSS) is a democratic student government representing political science students around the world.