Labor Standards and Trade Agreements: The Impact of Trade Negotiations on Country Adoption of Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining

Abstract

[Excerpt] This report examines the relationship between free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations and labor standards, particularly the fundamental labor principles or internationally recognized rights. We attempt to answer the following research question: To what extent do the labor standards-related requirements of U.S. trade agreements encourage potential trade partners to improve labor standards in their countries prior to pursuing a trade agreement with the United States or during the negotiation and implementation process?