First published 2004
Joseph Stiglitz examines how international trade negotiations systematically disadvantage poorer nations. The Nobel Prize winning economist argues that the Doha Development Round fails to serve developing countries despite its name. He demonstrates how past trade agreements created unfair conditions and shows why reciprocal commitments harm nations with vastly different economic circumstances. Stiglitz proposes concrete reforms including easier movement for unskilled workers, reduced barriers on labor intensive goods, and revised intellectual property rules that currently widen the knowledge gap between rich and poor countries. He warns against forcing developing nations to accept restrictions that limit their ability to pursue active development policies. The book offers policymakers and advocates a framework for trade negotiations that prioritizes development over pure reciprocity.
Genres: international-relations, political-science, economics, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: policy-analysis
120 pages · Paperback · Commonwealth Secretariat