By Victoria Hines

Economists are split over whether the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will bring economic gains to participating countries.  A new study from Tufts University suggests the deal would “[c]ause some job losses and exacerbate income inequality...especially in…the United States.” Meanwhile, economists from Brandeis and Johns Hopkins disagree, finding that incomes would actually increase by half a percentage point. However, not only does it appear as though economists will continue to debate the benefits associated with the TPP, but the issue has also become a heated topic in electoral politics; Hilary Clinton and Donald Trump have both spoken out against the TPP. The agreement’s future will ultimately depend on a congressional vote that is anticipated to occur after the 2016 elections.

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February 11, 2016

By Victoria Hines

The German Association of Judges (DRB) recently criticized the Investment Court System (ICS), which has been proposed to be included in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). If approved, this court system would allow investors to sue governments. The judges argue that there is “neither a legal basis nor an actual need for such a court.”  Other critics of ICS are apprehensive of whether multinationals will be able to use the system to put legal pressure on states. The European Commission disagrees, underlining that the ICS plan was “based on input from parliaments in the EU and other stakeholders,” and that it would not be able to effect member state law.  The Commission anticipates talks to be completed next summer.

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February 09, 2016