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Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title International Trade Law
Module Code LG404
School School of Law & Government
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Niall Moran
Semester 2: Niall Moran
Autumn: Niall Moran
Module TeachersNiall Moran
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Coursework Only
Description

This module provides students with an introduction to the foundations of international trade law. It examines the international legal framework for international trade provided by the World Trade Organization (WTO), which has shaped global trade and regulatory governance in recent decades. This module is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding and knowledge of the WTO, fundamental principles of WTO law, its dispute settlement system, and regional trade agreements. The course aims to deepen students' understanding of the origins, structure, and scope of the global trading system. Its objective is to enable students to demonstrate their analytical skills, as well as legal and multidisciplinary knowledge, both in class and through assignments.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the origins of the WTO with reference to the GATT 1947 and all subsequent agreements.
2. Identify and discuss the main bodies of the WTO with respect to the structure, functions and powers of each.
3. Be able to interpret and apply key WTO agreements, including advocating positions in hypothetical or past cases.
4. Critically analyse contemporary trade disputes under these WTO agreements with reference to WTO jurisprudence.
5. Identify and analyse the fundamental principles and procedures related to dispute resolution at WTO level.
6. Explain the concept of regional integration in the WTO and the characteristics of modern regional trade agreements.
7. Demonstrate how the rules of the WTO interact with other societal values.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Assignment Completion101No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Overview of international trade law: the GATT 1947, the WTO, and RTAs

Fundamental WTO obligations: MFN and National Treatment

Dispute Settlement: Institutional Structures, Panels and the Appellate Body

Trade in Goods

Regional Trade Agreements

Trade in Services and Trade-related Intellectual Property

WTO objectives and other objectives in national or international law

Compliance and Remedies

The TBT and SPS Agreements

Trade Remedies: Anti-dumping, Subsidies and Safeguards

Current issues and negotiations at the WTO

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment30% Examination Weight70%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
EssayEssay will consist of a 1,000 word written legal analysis on one of the module topics30%n/a
Written ExamA take home exam70%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List

    Other Resources

    None
    Programme or List of Programmes
    BCLBachelor of Civil Law (Law & Society)
    BCLNBCL (Clinical)
    BCLYABCL (International)
    EPLBA in Economics, Politics and Law
    EPLNBA in Economics, Politics and Law
    EPLYABA in Economics, Politics and Law (Int)
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