FTAA trade talks produce
empty framework

Steelworkers protest 'massive police state'

The UE, along with other trade union, community and social activists throughout the Americas, recently participated in protests against the 34- country FTAA treaty being negotiated in Miami the week of November 19-21. The goal of the FTAA (Free Trade Area of the Americas) talks was to impose a NAFTA-style trade agreement on all 34 nations -- despite the fact that the NAFTA treaty has been a disaster for working people in all three countries. The United Steel Workers of America (USWA) made a special effort and mobilized thousands of members. Root Cause, a progressive coalition of local organizations also organized a march into the city and various other activities, under conditions which we experienced first hand as extremely repressive.

Tens of thousands of labor and community activists ralied, marched and attended forums while many others, including many busloads of retirees, were prevented from even entering the city. Hundreds of riot-equipped police held rifles aimed at us as we peacefully gathered for the rally planned by the AFL-CIO, backed by armored personnel carriers. Although much has been written about what happened in Miami, two points are especially important:

• The negotiations ended a day early with an agreement that has been nicknamed "FTAA Lite." Although it was presented as a victory by pro-FTAA forces (they claim that it provides a framework for moving forward), it in fact represents a significant partial defeat for them, as it is a framework that has no content. While they will undoubtedly do all they can to get treaties that favor big companies at the expense of workers and citizens on a country-by-country basis, each country now has the right to pick and choose what parts they will agree to. That represents a stunning set back for FTAA promoters. This occurred largely because of the strong leadership taken by Brazil. However, even if this is the beginning of the end for the FTAA, we still face the CAFTA trade agreement being negotiated with central American countries and probably a series of bi-lateral agreements. Representatives from Argentina and Brazil, speaking at the briefing we attended in Miami, agreed that it is essential that we continue to protest these agreements!
  
  
• The police presence in Miami was shocking, and their actions profoundly disturbing. In recognition of the leadership role that the Steelworkers played, we are posting the press release the USWA issued, and encourage you to read the excellent letter by USWA president Leo Gerard in its entirety.

Steelworkers news release: Union condemns use of federal Iraq reconstruction funds to subsidize 'homeland repression' at FTAA meetings

Letter from USWA president Leo W. Gerard to Congressional leaders
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Find out more about the FTAA.