When writing about international trade and economics, it’s important to cite the relevant agreements established by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Proper citation not only adds credibility to your work, but it also helps other researchers and scholars build on your research.
Here are some guidelines to follow when citing WTO agreements:
1. Identify the agreement
Start by identifying the specific WTO agreement you are citing. The WTO has a number of agreements, including the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the Agreement on Agriculture, and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Be sure to use the correct name of the agreement.
2. Use the correct citation format
There are different citation formats used in academic and legal writing, but the most common format for citing WTO agreements is to include the full name of the agreement, the date it was adopted, and the article or provision being cited. For example:
– General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, 30 October 1947, Article I
– Agreement on Agriculture, 15 April 1994, Article 4
– Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, 15 April 1994, Article 27
If you are citing a specific provision within an article, you should indicate the paragraph number or sub-paragraph letter. For example:
– General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, 30 October 1947, Article I:1(a)
3. Provide the source
Include the source where the agreement can be found. This could be a website or a print publication. If you are citing a website, make sure the link is active and up-to-date. For example:
– General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, 30 October 1947, Article I. Available at: www.wto.org/gatt_docs/English/SULPDF/90580113.pdf (accessed on 22 June 2021).
– Agreement on Agriculture, 15 April 1994, Article 4. Available at: www.wto.org/english/docs_e/legal_e/14-ag.pdf (accessed on 22 June 2021).
– Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, 15 April 1994, Article 27. Available at: www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/trips_e/t_agm0_e.htm (accessed on 22 June 2021).
4. Check for updates
WTO agreements are subject to updates and amendments, so make sure you are citing the most current version of the agreement. Check the WTO website for any updates or changes.
In conclusion, citing WTO agreements is an important part of academic and legal writing on international trade and economics. Use the correct citation format, provide the source, and check for updates to ensure that your citations are accurate and up-to-date.
