The world has been experiencing the far-reaching impacts of decade-long neoliberal globalization. The liberalization of trade and investments allowed the proliferation and foreign corporate take-over of natural resources both in labor and environment. The privatization of public resources such as education, health, and basic social services has worsened the living condition of the people. Thus, neoliberal globalization resulted in increased maldevelopment and widening gap between rich and poor countries.
The adverse impacts of the COVID 19 pandemic on top of the perennial crisis brought by the capitalist system is pushing for an escalated imposition of neoliberal globalization through free trade agreements and so-called economic partnerships. The recent signing of the Regional Comprehensive Partnership Agreement (RCEP) is proof of desperation among these powerful nations to set up new and escalate the liberalization of economy.
Soon after its conclusion, China expressed its intent of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans- Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. RCEP and CPTPP has placed the Asia- Pacific region at center of the emerging new liberal trade and investment order.
But the unimpeded crisis and rivalry between emerging superpowers will leave no stone unturned in terms of exploiting the global populace. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has celebrated its 25 years this year. Although the ministerial conference is rescheduled to 2021, the working party is pushing for the settlement of the agenda through virtual means. In fact, WTO is eyeing at further liberalization of labor, ecommerce, fishing and food sector as the key to adapt to the impending crisis.
With the huge impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in the lives of the people, there is a need to look at the significant trade agreements in the region and the people’s alternative to the currently prevailing system.
Objectives
Program
Date: November 28, 2020
Time: 13:00- 15:00 Bangkok Time
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