EU Policy Workshops 2005-2006
Trade Policy, WTO Negotiations and Globalisation

When? 24-27 April 2006

Where? Madariaga Foundation, Rue Royale 87, B-1000, Brussels

Programme

The workshop will focus on EU policies regarding trade in goods and services, and will examine the contribution of the EU to the multilateral trade negotiations in the WTO. A central issue will be how EU trade policies respond to the challenges of globalization and sustainable development.

The policy process will be looked at from a variety of perspectives. Presentations by officials from the European Commission will be complemented by speakers from business, non-governmental organisations, and think-tanks in Brussels.

The training sessions will be delivered by experts who have contributed to developing EU policies regarding trade, the WTO negotiations and globalisation.

The programme will focus on the following specific themes:

• EU Trade Policy Parameters
• EU Responses to Globalisation
• The EU in the WTO
• Balancing EU Trade Interests in a Global Economy
• The Significance of the EU in Global Trade
• The EUs Commitment to Liberalisation of Markets
• EU Trade Policy in the Services Sector
• Trade and Sustainable Development
• EU Policy and Free Trade Areas
• EU Policies towards Developing Countries

The workshop will include discussion sessions and interactive debate led by the Course Director. Parts of the workshop will be held at the European Commission and at the European Parliament.

Documentation will be prepared for participants prior to the course.

Outcome

This workshop will give participants a deeper understanding of the policy-process regarding EU Trade Policy and responses to the challenges of the WTO multilateral trade negotiations, taking account of globalisation and sustainable development. Participants will gain unique insights into how common EU Trade Policies are negotiated and its current priorities. They will have the opportunity to meet EU Officials and Parliamentarians, and to gain a better appreciation of the significance of the EU in global trade.

Participants

The EU Policy Workshop on Trade Policy, WTO Negotiations and Globalisation is intended for

• Officials from EU Member States, candidate and neighbouring countries
• Managers from large companies and SMEs
• Representatives from NGOs, trade associations, development agencies
• International consultants working on EU-funded projects
• Journalists specialised in coverage of EU affairs
• Scholars and academics

Participants should have a good command of English, an understanding of how EU institutions work, and at least three years of relevant work experience. A maximum of 25 applicants will be selected for this Workshop to ensure an interactive environment and encourage participation.