Democratizing the Trade Debate

Abstract

[Excerpt] A thorough democratization of policy debates and decision-making is a precondition for progress in adding social dimensions to trade and investment regimes. Democratizing the trade debate means conceding social justice advocates a serious participatory role in shaping the rules of economic integration and in the operations of the bodies that implement new rules. Without the proverbial "seat at the table," social justice advocates will continue to see their concerns treated as afterthoughts.