Trade and cooperation with the European Union in the new millennium

Book abstract:

UK and other European citizens might be forgiven for having a narrow perspective of the EU and the rules and procedures emanating from the European Commission. It is when one understands that the European Union already comprises the world's largest trading entity that its importance in the wider world of trade regulation can be appreciated. So it may be less surprising to know that this volume arises from a conference, 'Trade and Co-operation with the EU in the New Millennium', held in Melbourne in December 2000.
The work is organised over four parts and follows the main themes of the conference: Globalisation and trade with the EU; EU external policies on agriculture, commerce and enlarged membership; Links between trade and social policy, labour standards and the environment; Trade and co-operation between the EU, Australia and Asia.
Papers address the interaction between trade negotiations and the will to impose social policies and human rights issues as a 'quid pro quo', and the resistance to withdrawal of agricultural subsidies through the CAP because of the perceived threat to French 'cultural' way of life. Contributors pose serious questions as to the way forward for strengthening the trade links between the EU and Australia and Asia, some of which will represent significant policy changes for all parties.
Cheryl Saunders is a Professor in the Faculty of Law, University of Melbourne and Director of the University's Centre for Comparative Constitutional Studies. She is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia and Co-Director of the Institute for Comparative and International Law and Associate Dean (Graduate Studies).
Gillian Triggs is also Co-Director of the Institute for Comparative and International Law and Professor in the Faculty of Law, University of Melbourne.