The impact of globalization in the United States, Mexico and Canada is evident in the movement of jobs to Mexico and the concern about downward harmonization of labor standards in all three countries. In an attempt to protect labor standards and the rights of workers in an era of free trade, unions pushed for the inclusion of the North American Agreement on Labor Cooperation (NAALC) during debates about NAFTA. This labor side agreement was signed by the United States, Mexico and Canada in September of 1993 and provides a process for investigating violations of workers’ rights.
How effective is this agreement in enforcing health and safety regulations in the maquiladora industry on the U.S. – Mexican border? This paper examines the four complaints filed to date that allege failure to enforce health and safety regulations as required under NAALC. The outcome of these cases has important policy implications for the future of NAFTA and for other proposed trade agreements.
Based on a review of documents and interviews with workers, community organizations, unions and government representatives, the effectiveness of the process established under the NAALC will be analyzed. The role of worker education and organizing and the critical alliances developed through cross border coalitions will be emphasized, with a discussion of how coalitions can work both within and outside the established legal procedures. Policy recommendations to improve worker protection under free trade agreements will be proposed.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: 1)Describe the NAFTA process for addressing violations of workplace health and safety regulations 2) Identify problems with protection of worker health and safety under the NAFTA side agreement 3) Analyze the role of cross border coalitions
Keywords: International Health, Occupational Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.