Trade As If People and Earth Matter: A Working Document on Alternatives,
seeks to contribute to the emerging dialogue on a new framework for trade that holds the promise of promoting just and sustainable development in the countries and areas where it is most needed. Trade policies and agreements must put people first! They should further genuine social and economic development for our neighbors around the world while preserving and creating good jobs here at home. They must support – not hinder – governments in adopting policies to protect public health and the natural environment. Trade policies must strike a balance between creating a predictable structure for international trade and preserving the policy space necessary for governments to foster and secure economic, social and human development for all their citizens.

This document examines the link between gender, health and trade by looking at the impact of the privatization of health services on women. It also offers a close analysis of the negative implications of TRIPS negotiations that are currently taking place in the WTO. The document calls for an end to trading essential services such as health in the world trade system.

Debate on TRIPS (Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights) and public health.