TTIP – some handy facts

A key proposal under TTIP is the introduction of Investor-State Dispute Settlements (ISDS).  ISDS would allow transnational corporations to sue governments directly for the loss of any future profits resulting from government action.  Where trade agreements with ISDS arrangements are already in place, multinational companies are using them to try to overturn the decisions of national governments:

  • Phillip Morris (the tobacco company) is suing the Australian government for its decision to introduce plain package cigarettes. Phillip Morris argues that having their name removed from their product is a “threat to their business”.
  • The French based multinational company Veolia, are suing the Egyptian government for increasing the national minimum wage – claiming this will “hurt” its investment.
  • A Swedish energy company is suing the German Government for closing nuclear power stations that it operates.

Under TTIP, the proposal is that the ISDS tribunals will be heard by corporate lawyers, who can take decisions against governments without a right of appeal.  This is a serious threat to our democracy.

The EU’s own research indicates that the introduction of TTIP would cost 600,000 European jobs.  TTIP is billed as being good for the economy – but it is big business that would gain, not workers.

UNISON North West will work with organisations like War on Want and the World Development Movement in the coming months to campaign against TTIP and other trade deals that enhance corporate power over our democracy.  Momentum is building around this campaign and it is a very important one to win.

There’s more information on TTIP, and a petition Here.