ICC Multipolarity - Part.1

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) was founded in 1919, shortly after World War I, to promote international trade and investment by representing the interests of businesses worldwide. Unlike intergovernmental organizations like the WTO, the ICC is a global business organization made up of companies and chambers of commerce from many countries. It develops international trade rules, provides dispute resolution services such as arbitration, and creates guidelines that help businesses operate smoothly across borders. Its goal is to facilitate open and fair trade by offering practical tools and advocacy for the global private sector.

The ICC emerged during a time when protectionism and trade rivalries in the 1930s threatened global economic stability. It was part of broader efforts to rebuild the global economy after the disruptions of World War I and prevent the kind of trade conflicts that contributed to the Great Depression. The ICC worked to encourage governments to adopt policies favoring open markets and cooperation, acting as a bridge between the business community and policymakers. Over the decades, it has complemented institutions like the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and later the World Trade Organization (WTO) by focusing on the practical needs of international businesses.

Today, the ICC remains a vital player in global trade, offering internationally recognized rules and arbitration services that help resolve commercial disputes efficiently. It also champions important issues like digital trade, sustainability, and anti-corruption efforts. For example, Qatar and other Middle Eastern countries have increasingly engaged with the ICC to strengthen their business environments and expand international trade links. By bringing together businesses from diverse economies, the ICC helps build a cooperative global trade ecosystem alongside governmental organizations such as the WTO.