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Question 8: ProsperityWhat should Canada do to help make the benefits of globalization more widely
shared within and among all countries? |
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| Contributor: | 1876 |
| Date: |
2003-05-01 11:18:59 |
| Answer: |
The debate about globalization is very polarized. It seems that most sources of information about the effects of globalization discuss only the negative, or champion only the positive. I would like to see Canada develop a balanced approach - to recognize and develop systems to mitigate the negative, while making the most of the positive. There is no point in pretending that globalization has only wonderful or horrible consequences.
Globalization is like a waterfall. We are plunging into it whether we like it or not. Some of us have elaborate helmets and float mechanisms that will ensure our survival. Others have nothing and may be smashed on the rocks. There is a current imbalance in trade agreements, favouring the movement of capital. There needs to be greater balance in terms of enforceable health, labour and environmental standards to ensure that everyone benefits. Now that we have an international criminal court, Canada could suggest an international civil court, in which transnational corporations can be sued by governments, employees or citizens of any country for breaking international laws and standards. Unfortunately, although many countries have protective laws and regulations on paper, they are unenforceable and subject to corrupt legal, governmental and police systems.
International trade agreements also need to specifically include protection for social services and culture. Although some may view these as "trade barriers", they are in fact essential for human well-being and development. Increased trade is an instrument of prosperity. It is not the goal in itself. Human well-being should always be the goal.
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