Why have critics argued that the World Trade Organization can weaken national sovereignty?

Critics of the World Trade Organization (WTO) argue that the organization can weaken national sovereignty by prioritizing the interests of large multinational corporations over those of smaller, local firms.12

This concern is rooted in the belief that the trade liberalization encouraged by the WTO limits a nation's ability to regulate its own economy and protect domestic interests. Specifically, opponents—including those critical of neoliberal globalization—contend that the WTO's rules and its dispute-settlement system can force countries to adopt policies that may lead to environmental damage or negatively impact living standards for workers.12

Furthermore, some developing nations have resisted efforts to integrate strict environmental and labour standards into WTO rules, arguing that such mandates could be used as a form of veiled protectionism by wealthier countries, thereby further infringing upon their sovereign right to determine their own economic and social policies.12