Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Coalitional diplomacy, in the context of international trade, refers to the practice of countries forming alliances and coordinating their strategies to achieve shared objectives within multilateral forums like the World Trade Organization (WTO). India has emerged as a prominent advocate for developing countries within the WTO, skillfully leveraging coalitional diplomacy to safeguard its interests and promote a more equitable global trading system. This approach has gained significant recognition, particularly in the face of protectionist pressures from developed nations. India’s success stems from a nuanced understanding of WTO dynamics and a proactive strategy of building consensus among diverse nations.
Historical Context of India’s Engagement with the WTO
India’s engagement with the multilateral trading system dates back to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) in 1947. However, its approach evolved significantly after the formation of the WTO in 1995. Initially, India focused on securing special and differential treatment (SDT) provisions for developing countries. The failure of the Doha Development Round (launched in 2001) to deliver on its promises highlighted the limitations of a purely defensive strategy. This prompted India to adopt a more proactive and coalition-building approach.
Factors Contributing to India’s Success
1. Identifying Common Interests with Developing Countries
India has successfully positioned itself as a leader of the developing world within the WTO. It has actively sought to identify and articulate common concerns and interests shared by countries like Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia, and others. These shared interests often revolve around issues such as agricultural subsidies in developed countries, market access for developing country exports, and the protection of intellectual property rights.
2. Strategic Positioning and Leadership
India’s large economy, growing market, and increasing influence in global affairs have given it a unique position to lead coalitions. It has consistently advocated for reforms in the WTO to make it more inclusive and representative of developing country concerns. India’s active participation in various WTO committees and negotiations, coupled with its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, has earned it respect among other member states.
3. Proactive Engagement and Negotiation Skills
India’s negotiators are known for their technical expertise and their ability to navigate complex trade negotiations. They have demonstrated a willingness to compromise on certain issues while firmly defending India’s core interests. This pragmatic approach has helped build trust and facilitate consensus among diverse stakeholders. For example, India played a crucial role in shaping the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in 2013, ensuring that it included provisions for technical assistance and capacity building for developing countries.
4. Building Alliances Beyond Traditional Partners
India has expanded its coalition-building efforts beyond traditional partners in the developing world. It has actively engaged with African countries, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS) to forge broader alliances. This inclusive approach has strengthened India’s negotiating position and increased its influence within the WTO.
5. Leveraging Regional Trade Agreements
India’s active participation in regional trade agreements (RTAs) like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) – despite ultimately not joining – has provided valuable experience in negotiating trade deals and building consensus among diverse countries. This experience has been instrumental in shaping India’s strategy within the WTO.
Recent Examples of India’s Coalitional Diplomacy
- Agriculture Negotiations: India has consistently worked with the G-20 group of developing countries to push for reductions in agricultural subsidies provided by developed countries, which distort global agricultural markets.
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): India has collaborated with other developing countries to advocate for flexibilities in the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement), particularly in relation to access to affordable medicines.
- Fisheries Subsidies Negotiations: India has played a key role in advocating for special and differential treatment for developing countries and small-scale fishers in the ongoing negotiations on fisheries subsidies.
- E-commerce Moratorium: India has led the charge against extending the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions, arguing that it deprives developing countries of potential revenue.
| Issue | India’s Position | Coalition Partners |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Subsidies | Reduction of subsidies by developed countries | G-20, African Group |
| TRIPS Agreement | Flexibilities for access to medicines | African Group, Least Developed Countries |
| E-commerce Moratorium | Oppose extension of moratorium | Indonesia, South Africa |
Conclusion
India’s success in coalitional diplomacy within the WTO is a testament to its strategic foresight, proactive engagement, and ability to build consensus among diverse nations. By consistently advocating for the interests of developing countries and promoting a more equitable global trading system, India has emerged as a key player in shaping the future of the WTO. However, navigating the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape and addressing new challenges like digital trade and climate change will require continued innovation and adaptability in India’s coalitional strategy.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.