ABSTRACT
A panel is established by the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB), normally at the second request of a member. Unlike the case with other arbitral tribunals, three neutral panellists are proposed by the WTO Secretariat for the consideration of the parties. If the parties cannot agree, the Director General is authorised to compose a panel for the parties. Parties may then file briefs and present arguments at two subsequent hearings. Unlike regular arbitrations, third party WTO members can also file briefs and appear at hearings.
