Question

Do you think governments should consider human rights when granting preferential trading rights to countries? What are the arguments for and against taking such a position?

Answer 1

Explanation: I think that governments should consider human rights in privileged trade with countries, so the answer is: yes. Human rights are first and foremost a moral principle that provides a framework for human behaviour, more precisely the ideas and ideals of moral behaviour that are prescribed by many international instruments. This means that human rights are, in fact, fundamental rights of literally everyone, regardless of race, nation or language. It is true that the goal of trade is profit, but that is why there are international laws that protect human rights and provide a framework for moral human behaviour. The protection of human rights as such is also a compulsory part of foreign policy under international law, and thus an integral part of the foreign policy of many countries, and more precisely those who respect and enforce these laws. Preferential trade rights usually refer to lowering tariffs and other preferential terms in transactions, and thus as part of a country's foreign policy may be a contribution to improving human rights with those engaged in trade. Again, if a country respects international laws of business and human rights, it should be privileged when trade is at stake, but if that country itself does not carry out its human rights policies consistently, or even threaten them among its people, then it should restrict trade with such countries. So not only should such a country not be privileged when it comes to trade, but some of the economic sanctions under international law should also be considered.