| This
publication provides a brief introduction to the many views surrounding
issues of global trade and the WTO's role in the global economy. In
this issue, you will find a special report on the need and value of
the WTO by Director General Mike Moore, an overview of trade issues
and the context in which the WTO operates by Debra Glassman, University
of Washington; questions and ideas for classroom use; and a variety
of additional viewpoints regarding the World Trade Organization. It
is obvious that the role and goal of the WTO is not only an issue of
economic decisions and trade but of values and differing points of view.
And these differing values and-views are likely to remain with us throughout
the 21st century. We hope this newsletter contributes to your understanding
and continuing discussion of these important issues. |
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I saw many young
people in the streets of Seattle. Frustrated, angry young people who
are worried about globalization and who are not really sure how to
address the future. These young people feel anxiety over the power
of multinationals, the impression of not being heard by their government,
poverty in the world, threat to the environment and a general sense
that they are not in control
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The World Trade Organization (WTO) held its Third Ministerial Conference
in Seattle in late 1999. This meeting brought together some 2,500
official delegates from 135 member countries and many observer countries;
at least 2,000 journalists from around the world; about 800 nongovernmental
organizations (NGOs) representing agricultural, manufacturing, labor,
environmental, high-tech, financial, and other associations; and 40,000
protesters. The conference ended without achieving its objectives
other than planning to continue discussing trade issues.
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Since the end of World War II government officials have gathered every
few years to talk about trade. These meetings were usually small gatherings
that focused on highly technical matters related to reducing trade
barriers. Generally ignored by the media and an uninterested public,
the conferees quietly discussed ways to reduce trade barriers between
nations and returned to their homes. When representatives to the World
Trade Organization gathered in Seattle in December 1999, things were
quite different.
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To realize the full possibilities of the new economy, we must reach
beyond our own borders, to shape the revolution that is tearing down
barriers and building new networks among nations and individuals,
economies and cultures: globalization.
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The US is the world's leading trader in goods and services, accounting
for about 14 percent of world exports and about 16 percent of imports.
Americans benefit directly from this exchange through a greater variety
of goods and services at less costly prices.
For over half a century the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
(GATT) and then the World Trade Organization (WTO) have played a key
part in reducing barriers to trade, strengthening international laws,
and encouraging economic development in a world that has become increasingly
integrated.
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"To realize the full possibilities of the new economy, we must reach
beyond our own borders, to shape the revolution that is tearing down
barriers and building new networks among nations and individuals,
economies and cultures: globalization.
|
|
The US is the world's
leading trader in goods and services, accounting for about 14 percent
of world exports and about 16 percent of imports. Americans benefit
directly from this exchange through a greater variety of goods and
services at less costly prices.
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Curriculum Materials
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