Trade
The European Union (EU) is an important global player in trade, both bilaterally and as a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and as such the EU should ensure that that trade can be an instrument for development and that the agreements it makes do not undermine human rights and the environment in partner countries. As the world's largest trading bloc, the EU is in a unique position to contribute to trade justice. In particular, Europe and Africa are connected by strong trade links, making the EU the biggest export market for African products.
In reality, far from contributing to trade justice, the EU's trade agenda risks the opposite outcome. At the WTO, developing countries themselves have rejected the aggressive trade liberalisation approach from rich nations, including the EU. Many African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries did not sign Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) before the deadline at the end of 2007 because of development concerns. The European Commission continues to pursue its agenda with scant regard for ACP development objectives and regional integration plans.
In all aspects of its trade and investment policies, the EU must respect the right of developing countries to determine their own development paths, including economic, trade, social and environmental policies.
What is Bond doing?
Bond advocates for coherence in the European Union external policy, especially external trade policy. The Bond European Policy Group works closely with the Trade Justice Movement to ensure that EU trade policies do not harm the achievement of development objectives.
Through its members Bond actively supports the Trade Justice Movement
What you can do...
Stay informed on the latest news and actions on trade by checking the Trade Justice Movement website.
Contact the Bond European Policy Officer to know more.
