The European Union has spearheaded an initiative known as the Multilateral Provisional Appeal Arbitration Agreement (MPIA) to uphold the global trade system, which has been jeopardized by the blockage of the World Trade Organization's (WTO) appeal process. This disruption was triggered in October 2018 when the United States refused to approve new judges to the WTO's Appellate Body, claiming that the tribunal was discriminatory, exceeded its powers, and made unauthorized interpretations of existing agreements.

In March 2020, the EU and a coalition of nations launched the MPIA in Geneva as an alternative mechanism to ensure that there is still a review process for international trade disputes. The MPIA provides a framework for countries to engage in arbitration without relying on the now-disbanded WTO system, which many countries fear has been rendered ineffective due to U.S. obstructionism. This initiative reflects a growing concern among signatory nations regarding the sustainability and reliability of the global trade structure in light of unilateral actions by dominant economies.

The creation of the MPIA represents a significant shift in international trade governance, highlighting the EU's commitment to multilateralism and its role as a facilitator for collective action among member and partner states. As global trade faces increasing challenges from protectionist policies, the initiative ensures that there remains a structured process for the resolution of trade disputes, potentially reinforcing the stability of international trade relations and preventing escalation into wider conflicts among nations.