INTERFAITH STATEMENT ON TRADE

An Interfaith Statement on International Trade and Investment

The Interfaith Working Group on Trade and Investment includes representatives of a broad spectrum of religious institutions and faith-based organizations in the United States. We believe that international trade and investment policies and practices present a serious moral challenge because of their profound effect upon the lives of people around the world and upon creation.

Consequently, the Working Group seeks to encourage and facilitate deeper involvement by communities of faith in the public debate on trade and investment policies. The development of these principles is a first step towards that goal. The principles have two purposes: to help people analyze and critique trade and investment policies and then envision more just and sustainable alternatives. Click here for a partial list of organizations that have endorsed these principles.

The principles are as follows (click on any of the principles to read more):

1. International trade and investment systems should respect and support the dignity of the human person, the integrity of creation, and our common humanity.

2. International trade and investment activities should advance the common good and be evaluated in the light of their impact on those who are most vulnerable.

3. International trade and investment policies and decisions should be transparent and should involve the meaningful participation of the most vulnerable stakeholders.

4. International trade and investment systems should respect the legitimate role of government, in collaboration with civil society, to set policies regarding the development and welfare of its people.

5. International trade and investment systems should safeguard the global commons and respect the right of local communities to protect and sustainably develop their natural resources.

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