Free and equal trade among countries with vastly unequal economies is impossible. Weaker economies are inevitably swallowed up by stronger ones, and the workers of these poor nations turned into slaves to the benefit of richer nations who do not play by the same rules. Bush promises to enforce the laws of free trade "in all regions of the world" to "ensure that the benefits of free trade do not come at the expense of American workers." Bingo. May the rest of the world take heed: the ultimate purpose of "free trade" is to benefit Americans.
Take NAFTA, which gives unprecedented power to corporations to successfully sue and overturn laws created by democratically elected governments if these laws interfere with a company's inalienable right to make a profit. Such unfettered corporate power over governments can only lead to one logical conclusion: free trade and democracy are diametrically opposed and cannot co-exist.
In a display of classic doublespeak, the Bush platform defines "a program to establish, finance and monitor a truly independent judiciary" in a future, reformed Palestinian government. Pray tell, how can a judiciary be "truly independent" if it is (1) beholden to the interests of outsiders who foot the bill and (2) being monitored?
A shining example full of contradictory statements, Bush's strategy, on the one hand, applauds the idea of building international cooperation, partnerships, coalitions, and alliances. "Coordination with European allies and international institutions is essential for constructive conflict mediation and successful peace operations. … We will respect the values, judgment, and interests of our friends and partners."
Take NAFTA, which gives unprecedented power to corporations to successfully sue and overturn laws created by democratically elected governments if these laws interfere with a company's inalienable right to make a profit. Such unfettered corporate power over governments can only lead to one logical conclusion: free trade and democracy are diametrically opposed and cannot co-exist.
In a display of classic doublespeak, the Bush platform defines "a program to establish, finance and monitor a truly independent judiciary" in a future, reformed Palestinian government. Pray tell, how can a judiciary be "truly independent" if it is (1) beholden to the interests of outsiders who foot the bill and (2) being monitored?
A shining example full of contradictory statements, Bush's strategy, on the one hand, applauds the idea of building international cooperation, partnerships, coalitions, and alliances. "Coordination with European allies and international institutions is essential for constructive conflict mediation and successful peace operations. … We will respect the values, judgment, and interests of our friends and partners."