The precautionary principle in the decision-making practice of the WTO Dispute Settlement Body

This thesis analyzes the application of the precautionary principle in the dispute settlement practice of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The study examines the evolution of this principle's interpretation through key cases in public health, biosafety, and environmental protection. The research reveals differences in approaches to implementing the precautionary principle depending on the nature of protected interests, highlighting the balance between scientific justification, procedural transparency, and free trade commitments. Particular attention is paid to the impact of the WTO dispute settlement system crisis, including the paralysis of the Appellate Body, on states' shift toward alternative dispute resolution methods. The study confirms the hypothesis that the WTO crisis contributes to the fragmentation of the international trading system, particularly regarding autonomous interpretations of the precautionary principle in regional agreements. The conclusion proposes reforms to harmonize WTO norms with international standards and enhance the effectiveness of dispute resolution concerning emerging challenges in health, ecology, and biotechnology.