| ID: | |
| Title: | Human Rights and the World Trade Organization: Not Just a Case of Envy Regime |
| Source: | online: Social Science Research Network . |
| Parties: | |
| Dispute Resolution Organ: | |
| Year: | 2008 |
| Pages: | 0 |
| Author(s): | Joseph, Sarah |
| Keywords: | poverty, development, United Nations, WTO, human rights, international trade, economy |
| Abstract: | The author argues the present imbalance ineffectiveness between international economic institutions and international social justice institution must be redressed. She poses the question: Is it possible that international human rights lawyers suffer from mere ‘regime envy’, bemoaning the effectiveness of the WTO compared to the relative ineffectiveness, for example, of bodies such as the UN human rights treaty bodies?
In this article the author addresses the general concerns that have been raised regarding the WTO from a human rights perspective; the democratic deficit within the WTO; the impact of WTO on poverty and development within development States; and the arguments regarding the exclusion of labor right from WTO agenda and possible strategies for its future inclusion. She argues that the introduction of greater equilibrium into the international system is needed; it is desirable to have a balance between the goals of economic institutions and those of international social institutions. From a human rights point of view, according to Joseph, protection must be provided for the economic and social rights of ‘losers’ from free trade. The author concludes a more human centered approach to free trade by the WTO would fit more clearly with the dèbut de siècle call amongst international bodies for a holistic commitment to ‘human security’ rather than a lopsided commitment to economic efficiency. |
| Download Article: | Available here |