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The Us-Korea Free Trade Agreement: The Evolution Of Responsible Trade And A Reflection On What Lies Ahead, Nicole D. Skibola

Nicole D Skibola

This paper addresses residual problems in the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement, with regard to the Agreement’s labor provisions in Article 19. Alternatives are proposed in response to remaining issues including the status of Outward Processing Zones and a problematic lack of private firm accountability. First, it is suggested that Annex 22-A, pertaining to Outward Processing Zones, is renegotiated. To address the lack of private firm accountability, three alternate models are offered. The first approach is to follow the Cambodia Textile Agreement model, whereby positive economic incentives are attached to specific strides made in improving labor conditions. The second approach is …