Looking at trade agreements and negotiations from the perspective of gender has been discussed on many platforms. Looking at gender equity, removing barriers to trade as well as enhancing gender access in trade are pivotal. What if these principles are reflected in a trade agreement? In fact, some trade agreements already do.
CSIS has come out with a detailed report on gender and trade - an interesting read on what kind of provisions should be included in trade agreements to address teh gender question - to ensure gender is maintsreamed and pivoted well withim the trade legalese! Titled, "Women and Trade - How Trade Agreements can level the Gender Playing Field", it argues that trade negotiators must be more forceful in pushing the agenda of gender equity and equality in trade agreements. It concludes:
Trade liberalization has increased global market access for women as well as men, but there is more that can be done. Though trade has historically failed to consider how it impacts women and men differently, it is not too late for policymakers and negotiators to take meaningful action. Inserting gender-specific language in trade agreements is an important first step. Negotiators and governments can also work to elevate women’s voices through practical and legal means. Demonstrated commitments to these top-down approaches will be crucial to leveling the gender playing field for women in trade.
Will gender in trade agreements be the next labour chapter in trade agreements? Will the gold standard be set in RTAs or are they already set? What implications for negotiating positions? Is it a "non-trade" issue to be excluded from the ambit of trade agreements? Is it a slippery slope of inclusion of diverse social agenda in trade agreements?
A comprehensive study with textual suggestions too - a must read for trade negotiators of all hues!
No comments:
Post a Comment