MAI_Middle

Finding Middle Ground in the Controversial Multilateral Agreement on Investments

The Multilateral Agreement on Investments presents a complex issue. Proponents argue that without MAI global trade will stagnate while its ratification will herald a new era of global prosperity. Critics say that under MAI, multinational corporations will, among other things, exploit exploit natural resources and exacerbate the environmental problems that currently plague our world to an extreme. Is the situation really this stark? If the agreement is ratified as it currently exists, this is a valid possibility. However, it is doubtful that the MAI will be passed in it's current form as the global resistance to it increases. Yet there are ways to save some of the benefits of MAI while protecting our environment through the careful and extensive modification of the current agreement. Some of the possible modifications are listed below.

Restrictions on the signers requiring that they have strong, well enforced environmental laws. This would prevent multinational corporations from exploiting the often lax environmental laws of developing nations and also provide an incentive for developing nations to update their environmental laws;
Measures requiring investors to operate under the stronger of home or host country environmental standards. At present, MAI allows for foreign investors to take advantage of host counties' less restrictive environmental regulation. This would require whatever regulation is stricter to take precedence;
Exceptions from MAI conditions in order to protect the environment, conserve natural resources or support international environmental programs.
Measures setting guidelines for appropriate industry conduct regarding sustainable practices and other behavior towards the environment. Currently MAI requires host countries to treat companies with a history of responsible conduct the same as those companies that have exploited their environment in the past, this would place restrictions on irresponsible companies and encourage these companies to improve their conduct.
Measures requiring a more fair and balanced dispute resolution process. Currently the companies have all the advantages when bringing up disputes with their host country. This would allow full public access to hearings and allow for the representation of environmental interests.

source: Friends of the Earth

While the original deadlines for the completion of negotiations are long past, MAI never came to fruitation and is still under consideration. By writing letters to federal officials and by raising public awareness through letters to media, you can help play a role in ensuring that an environmentally responsible agreement on multilateral investment is negotiated and ratified. Sample letters can be found on the Links page and these also have possible addressees. For lettere to the editor, the address is often listed in the Editorial page and Television news often display their address at the end of the program. It is important to express your views to public officials. They do read their mail because they want to know what is important to their constituents and by telling them you can influence public policy!