The World Trade Organization (WTO) has become a symbol of economic globalization, exerting significant influence over global commerce with its near-universal membership and broad trade coverage. However, recent challenges have emerged, particularly with the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system. The paralysis of the WTO’s Appellate Body since 2019 has left unresolved disputes lingering, raising concerns about the organization’s effectiveness. This article explores the implications of this crisis within the context of shifting geopolitical dynamics, analyzing potential pathways for reform to revitalize the WTO’s dispute resolution mechanism in the context of contemporary geopolitical tensions and rivalry between global powers.