Conference - International Trade, Engine of Progress?
For decades, we’ve been told: open markets, sign agreements, relax trade barriers – this is the key to progress. More trade, more growth, more prosperity. Really?
Behind major international treaties, such as the Mercosur agreement which will be discussed, there is a more complex and often less glamorous reality. While these agreements promise great things, they also raise fundamental questions: Who really benefits? Under what conditions? And at what cost?
Can international trade be a lever for socio-economic development? Perhaps. But not without rules. Not without safeguards. Not without serious reflection on its social, environmental, and democratic impacts.
Today, criticisms are on the rise: lowering of social and environmental standards, bypassing national regulations, competition between workers and agricultural models, the surge in carbon footprint from globalized trade, and the weakening of local economies.
Yet negotiations continue. New agreements are being drafted with countries like India, Indonesia, or Australia. In Belgium, some are trying to revive contested agreements such as CETA. Should we persist down this road? Or rethink our way of trading, producing, and cooperating?
During this "Mardi de l’Actu" at CIEP, we will take the time to challenge assumptions by bringing together different viewpoints and shedding new light on the issues surrounding international trade.
Good to know
Free event.
Location: 22 rue du Marché au Beurre, Arlon.
Guest speakers and field experts at the "Mardi de l’Actu" (CIEP).
Automatically translated from French.
Where does it take place?
MOC
Chez René.e
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