INTERFAITH STATEMENT ON TRADE

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

In order for trade and investment practices to advance the common good, then transparency of process, meaningful participation in decision-making by those affected, and empowerment of vulnerable people are essential. Transparency requires that all participants have sufficient knowledge of the issues, rules, and procedures and other vital elements of the decision-making process. All stakeholders should be able to offer their opinions and perceptions in helping to determine, implement, and evaluate policies. Those who are vulnerable include communities of ordinary people who often bear the burden of the negative consequences of trade and investment. Meaningful participation implies strengthening local actors and economies; it requires the trans- formation of power relations to create opportunities for those who are vulnerable to fully participate as stakeholders.

We observe:

Industrial states and global institutions that often make decisions and debate policies without the full participation of those affected.

Women being denied participation in trade and investment decisions, even though they make significant contributions to the local economy and often suffer the most from the adverse effects of such decisions.

The evolving participation of civil society and peoples of faith in meaningful dialogue with governments and intergovernmental organizations about ethical trade and investment issues.

We envision:

International institutions and policy processes that incorporate equitable participation and empowerment of all stakeholders, especially the countries of the global South and their peoples and communities; effective regional institutions that enhance local and regional trade and investment options; transparent and accountable national and local structures in which citizens and organizations of civil society meaningfully participate in policy decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods; and economies that value sustainability, human dignity, equity, and community.

Click here to read more.

Click here to read all of the principles.

Click here for a printer-friendly (PDF) version of this document.