A 10-point peek behind the curtain
The EU has been negotiating the EU-Mercosur Association Agreement with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay since 1999. Much has changed politically and economically since then. However, the cornerstones of the agreement have not. It is outdated and therefore unable to provide answers to the social, ecological, economic and political challenges of the 21st century.
While sustainability and human rights are the main topics of discussion in the public debate, one point is barely mentioned, namely the lack of transparency in the negotiation process. The EU-Mercosur deal has been negotiated in full secrecy and opacity, without participation of civil society nor consultation of local communities and trade unions. Some parts of the text have not even been divulged nor translated in languages of Mercosur countries.
Friends of the Earth Europe, Anders Handeln and Netzwerk Gerechter Welthandel brought this democratic issue to light and allow you to peek behind the opacity curtain. Check out their report, available in English and German, for more information.
