Conclusion
This chapter draws together the findings from the qualitative comparative analysis and the case studies (cross-case comparison) to debunk the demand-side account of compliance and qualify the impact of the number of veto players. It makes the case that the EU’s response to adverse WTO rulings is best explained by supply-side factors and that policy makers are motivated primarily by the rationalist considerations of reciprocity and reputation. The chapter considers how generalizable these conclusions are beyond the EU. It also reflects on the implications of the analysis for the effectiveness of the WTO and the character of the EU as an international actor. It concludes by reflecting on the utility of the concept of compliance.