Write an original Environmental History discussion post of at least 150+ words. First, copy and paste the discussion question, then answer both parts directly. Use specific evidence from the December 1999 Global Exchange “Declaration for Global Democracy” to explain why the authors feared globalization and WTO policies. Discuss effects on ordinary people, corporate power, democracy, workers, local communities, and the environment. Clearly evaluate whether these concerns were real, exaggerated, or partly both, and justify your position. Write naturally and originally at a college-student level.
Introduction:
November 30, 1999 marked a turning point in history. Tens of thousands of ordinary citizens took to the streets of Seattle to stop the World Trade Organization (WTO) from conducting business as usual. (i.e., making rules for the entire planet that mainly serve the interests of large corporations).
Seattle marked a turning point in a number of ways. Never before had so much anti-corporate critique appeared in the corporate-controlled media. The Los Angeles Times opined: "On the tear gas shrouded streets of Seattle, the unruly forces of democracy collided with the elite world of trade policy. And when the meeting ended in failure on Friday the elitists had lost and the debate had changed forever."
Text:
From Global Exchange, Seattle, Declaration for Global Democracy (December 1999)
As citizens of global society, recognizing that the World Trade Organization is unjustly dominated by corporate interests and run for the enrichment of the few at the expense of all others, we demand: Representatives from all sectors of society must be included in all levels of trade policy formulations. All global citizens must be democratically represented in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of all global social and economic policies. Global trade and investment must not be ends in themselves, but rather the instruments for achieving equitable and sustainable development including protection for workers and the environment. Global trade agreements must not undermine the ability of each nation-state or local community to meet its citizens' social, environmental, cultural or economic needs. The World Trade Organization must be replaced by a democratic and transparent body accountable to citizens--not to corporations. No globalization without representation!
Global Exchange, Declaration for Global Democracy, Seattle, December 1999. Reprinted by permission of Global Exchange.
*** Discussion Question:
Why do you think the authors of this text are so much concerned about the impacts of globalization and the consequent policies of WTO on the lives of people on earth? To what extent do you think their concerns are real or exaggerated?