This mechanism provides financial resources to developing country parties on a grant or concessional basis. In the event of a dispute between Contracting Parties, the parties concerned shall seek a negotiated resolution. If this fails, they may jointly seek mediation by a third party. Decision both on procedure and substance are taken by a majority vote of the tribunal. Decisions are to be rendered within 5 months from the time the tribunal is constituted, but may be extended for an additional 5 months.
Decision is binding unless the parties have agreed in advance to an appellate procedure.
If either party does not make these appointments within 2 months, the Secretary-General of the UN shall make those appointments if asked by the party requesting the Commission. The Commission shall take its decision by majority vote. It will render a proposal for resolution, which the parties shall consider in good faith. Several developing countries have asked the US to reconsider its position. The provisions mainly set goals with a few exceptions.