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EU urged to lead on trade reforms

13-12-2005

As global decision-makers gather for the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) Ministerial Conference in Hong Kong this week, BirdLife International, Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace are urging the EU to lead on demands for drastic changes in the global trade system.

The three organisations are united in calling for a major realignment of the current WTO agenda, in which trade policies, focused only on achieving trade goals, are exacerbating major environmental problems.

Fears are mounting that discussions in Hong Kong will continue to tiptoe around major global issues; such as the destruction of natural habitats and wildlife, climate change and escalating poverty. This week’s meeting is crucial in setting the future direction for trade policies, which have an impact on all aspects of society and the planet, when a framework for trade in agriculture, services and industrial goods will be set. That framework will lead to trade deals between nations, which are scheduled for completion by the end of 2006.

Harry Huyton of BirdLife commented, "We need a joined-up response in Hong Kong to the inseparable challenges of ending poverty and protecting the environment."

"As a key player in the trade negotiations, the EU has a responsibility to take the lead in ensuring a sustainable outcome for all. Our organisations, together representing many millions of members worldwide, hope that the EU will meet this responsibility and support our call not to trade away our planet," added Alexandra Wandel of Friends of the Earth Europe.