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The strategy and politics of linking trade and labor standards: an overview of issues and approaches

In: Handbook on Globalisation and Labour Standards

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  • Sandra Polaski

Abstract

Advocates for workers' rights have long sought to use trade and market access as cross-border leverage to improve labor laws and working conditions. This approach has gradually been integrated into the trade policy of the United States and the European Union, the two largest demandeurs of such linkage. This chapter examines the motives and strategies of the main actors involved, identifying the role of executive and legislative actors and of trade unions and other civil society organizations. It looks at the implementation of the instruments and critiques both US and EU performance, although for different reasons. It suggests lessons that can be drawn from this experience to improve the use of trade policy to achieve real improvements in labor standards globally.

Suggested Citation

  • Sandra Polaski, 2022. "The strategy and politics of linking trade and labor standards: an overview of issues and approaches," Chapters, in: Handbook on Globalisation and Labour Standards, chapter 11, pages 203-225, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:18768_11
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    References listed on IDEAS

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