Globalization and Democracy: The Threat to Jobs and Citizens
Rights in theTrans Pacific Partnership Prof. G. Lafer University of
Oregon 2014 Prof. G. Lafer University of Oregon 2014
Slide 2
EU vs. NAFTA: Two Models for Trade
Slide 3
EU Social Charter Minimum wages Right to paid vacation and
weekly rest. Freedom to form union Part-time workers protection
Support for unemployed and pensioners Worker say over layoffs,
reorganization or technological change Mobility of workers across
borders
Slide 4
A Treaty Between Countries? Former Mexican Foreign Minister
Jorge Castenada
Slide 5
U.S. has lost 5 million manufacturing jobs since NAFTA Over
50,000 Oregon jobs have been certified by the federal government as
eliminated due to free trade.
Slide 6
Under CAFTA, investors are protected against indirect
expropriation. This includes government actions that reduce
investors reasonable expectation of gain or profit. Investor Rights
Under FTAs
Slide 7
Foreign Investor Complaint Procedure Central American Free
Trade Agreement Step 1. Investor notifies a country of its intent
to file an arbitration claim, providing an explanation of the case.
Step 2. After 90 days, investor files claim and three- person
arbitration panel is established. Step 3. Arbitrators hear the case
and render a decision. Decisions are binding and final, with no
possibility for appeal.
Slide 8
Sample Investor Claims Under NAFTA Forced Privatization (UPS
versus Canada Post) Domestic Industry Undermined (U.S. Corn
Producers attack Mexican sugar industry) Environmental Regulations
Overturned Public Regulations