The Security, Trade and the Economy program aims to provide Canadians with relevant and accessible analysis on current international economic policies with a focus on Canadian interests and trade security. Additionally, the program examines our country’s commitment to NATO’s mandate of encouraging economic collaboration and eliminating economic conflict.

Security, Trade and the Economy

The Environmental Race to the Bottom: Fact or Fiction?

Introduction Since the mid 20th century, many have feared a global, environmental “Race to the Bottom” in which nation-states compete with one another by lowering their environmental regulations to attract industry to their jurisdictions. Hypothetically, the effect would be to create an advantage for producers in jurisdictions with strict regulations to relocate to the least-regulated Read More…

Security, Trade and the Economy

United States-China Trade War (Infographic)

US-CHINA-TRADE-WARDownload Photo: United States of America Flag (1959), by Dbenbenn via Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. Photo: China Flag (2009), by SKopp via Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed in articles are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the NATO Association of Canada.

Security, Trade and the Economy

International Trade Implications on Canadian Business

Following a press release the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Roberto Azevêdo made remarks on the theme of slowing global trade growth earlier this year. In 2017, there was optimism of renewed momentum in global trade which was backed by a 4.6% growth. This period of broad-based growth lasted throughout 2017 and into Read More…

Security, Trade and the Economy

Debunking the Myth that Agricultural Subsidies Preserve Traditional Lifestyles and the Environment

Since the signing of the GATT, nations have sought to justify their trade distorting agricultural subsidy schemes on the basis of several rationales. In this article, Dan Poliwoda debunks one of those rationales: the myth that agricultural subsidies protect traditional rural lifestyles and the environment. Later, he discusses how anticipated reforms to the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy more closely align with this stated objective.

Security, Trade and the Economy

Making the US-China Trade War About More Than Just Trade

In this article, Dan Poliwoda examines the escalating US-China Trade War, and the growing geo-political threat China poses to the US and its democratic allies. Instead of deescalation, Dan argues the US must redefine its rationale for pursuing the conflict in order to apply broader economic pressure on China through a G-7 led, democratic coalition.

David Lazzam Security, Trade and the Economy

Special Report: Can One Lawsuit Turn the Tide Against Big Energy in the Battle on Climate Change?

In his special report, David Lazzam discusses the monumental impact the upcoming New York State ExxonMobil lawsuit could have on the future of climate litigation. Will the upcoming legal battle reflect the victories of tobacco regulation?

Security, Trade and the Economy Wu Xiao

Belt and Road Initiative: Understanding China’s Foreign Policy Strategy

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been a contentious topic in international affairs since it was announced by President Xi Jinping in 2013. The mega-project aiming to connect Central Asia, Europe, and Africa via economic trade routes has received mixed responses from the international community for its lofty goals. Despite criticism about the plan’s Read More…

Security, Trade and the Economy William Lloyd

The Economic State of Syria

The Syrian Civil War is drawing to a close, and at long last. Since its inception in March of 2011, the conflict has provoked utter calamity on a scale not otherwise seen since World War Two. Originating from an unassuming incident, the war has spiraled out of control, with the resulting carnage leaving upwards of Read More…