Join the Debate on Fair/Free Trade
Those of us in the union movement know pitting “free” trade against “fair” trade is a false dichotomy: Making trade agreements that ensure basic standards for workers and the environment—fair trade—does not exclude trade deals that open markets and move goods—”free” trade.
With that caveat in mind, we want to point out an opportunity to take part in a debate sponsored by the British publication, The Economist, which tackles the
tension between freedom and fairness and [tries] to resolve whether action on one front is more important, and what forms such action might take.
The “Open for Debate” forum features two economists with arguments for/against fair trade and an opportunity to vote in the debate and add your view. In an oddly British twist, you can change your vote as many times as you wish, but you get only one vote. You’ll need to sign up, but it’s free. Comments are moderated.
230 Economists Voice Support for Employee Free Choice
The Employee Free Choice Act is absolutely necessary to help workers rebuild the economy, according to a statement signed by 230 economists.
In the statement, many of America’s top economists, including Nobel Prize laureates, explain why the new law to protect workers’ freedom to form unions and bargain is more than desirable—it’s essential. Released by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), the statement builds on a February call for the legislation that has gathered growing support among economists.
The 230 economists, coming from top institutions in 33 states, point to the erosion of working family incomes as a key factor in our economic crisis—and the need for the freedom of workers to bargain collectively, without fear of management abuses, as key to recovery. The signers say:
As economists, we believe this is a critically important step in rebuilding our economy and strengthening our democracy by enhancing the voice of working people in the workplace.
These economists join hundreds of academics and other experts from across the country, from historians to business professors, as well as a broad coalition of faith, environmental, small business and civil rights groups, who are supporting the Employee Free Choice Act.
