Arguments Against Global Environmental Organizations

             With the recent growing influence of the environmental movement, it seems plausible at first thought, to include organizations such as NGO’s (Non Governmental Organization) in WTO negotiations and dispute settlement processes.  The problem is that the WTO does not seem to be the proper international body to discuss topics of this nature.  Nor does it seem wise to allow an NGO to initiate formal complaints before the Dispute Settlement Body.

            The WTO has many critics these days and most complain of a lack of transparency or inefficient processes.  So what would be the point of widening the scope of an already embattled international organization?  The better course of action would be to leave these issues to the United Nations and the relevant body that oversees them.  Also, there could be some interaction between the WTO and the United Nations, if the United Nations finds the claims of a plaintiff NGO to be substantiated, and in the best interest of global welfare.  For now though the WTO should adhere to its basic principals and that is trade liberalization. 

            That brings us to the idea set forth by Mr. Charnovitz that claims NGO’s should be allowed the power to initiate complaints and bring them before the dispute settlement body.  This is a very dangerous idea, and contrary to Mr. Charnovitz, I believe undemocratic.  The idea that NGO’s represent the people is highly questionable as far as I’m concerned.  Organizations such as Greenpeace and other radical NGO’s represent the fringe rather than the majority.  If these organizations were given the power to bring cases before the DSB it could be economically disastrous for the global economy.  Furthermore, the implication that these organizations are far more informed about environmental issues is irrelevant.  The WTO was not created to help mother earth maintain her ‘greenness’.

            The problem with NGO’s is that most often they wish to enter into forums that were not created to deal with the issues they present, and are often ideas that the majority of people disagree with.  These organizations should be allowed to voice their opinion and on occasion be consulted if the need arises, but in no way, shape, or form should they be given any power on the international economic scene.  Leave it to national governments to negotiate among themselves on issues such as the environment, labor, and other NGO interest.

Jeffrey Brandon Lee