At a time when the debate on trade has rarely been as prominent or controversial, the WTO's 2017 Public Forum offers an opportunity to go beyond the rhetoric and examine in detail the realities of trade – the opportunities it offers and the challenges it can bring. The Forum will provide a platform for frank discussions among policy makers, civil society representatives, business people and researchers as they consider how to make trade work for more people and ensure that the trading system is as inclusive as it can be.
CIGI's International Law Research Program will be an exhibitor at the Forum and will provide expert commentary on two plenary sessions: Progressive Approaches to Public Participation in Trade Policy and Refreshing the Work - Trade Relationship Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals.