Leveling the Playing Field: Labor Provisions in CAFTA

Part I of this Article details labor problems in CAFTA countries, with specific emphasis on problems related to fundamental labor rights. Part II discusses the labor-related trading objectives mandated by the U.S. Congress in the TPA, including the relationship of those objectives to core international labor standards promulgated by the International Labor Organization ("ILO"). Part III then analyzes the labor provisions that are included in CAFTA. To the extent that these provisions do not fulfill the labor objectives set forth in the TPA and do not adequately promote core international labor standards, Part IV proposes provisions that the United States should include in future trade agreements.