Global Governance: A Tripartite Approach to Negotiations

In 2004-2005 Ashburn Institute hosted a series of Roundtable discussions on "Global Governance: A Tripartite Approach to Negotiations." More than 20 individuals, including the US government and trade representatives, international law and policy experts, economists, academics, and civic, labor and corporate leaders, will discuss ways in which the public and private sectors can jointly address the realities of globalization and identify practices that would lead to greater social and economic justice in the world.

The first Roundtable discussion focused on "Globalization: Threats and Opportunities" . Participants discussed globalization both historically and in its present century incarnation.

Globalization is the most important phenomenon of our time. It is neither new, nor complete. It is a process of freer movement of information, capital, ideas, goods, services, and people around the world - and it has become the subject of a contentious, complicated debate. Each particular element of this debate - from the alleged Americanization of world culture, to the supposed end of the nation-state, to the potential triumph of global companies - is subject to dispute. Economists focus on capital movements but ignore the social and cultural disruptions that globalization brings. Businessmen often know the subject better than anyone else - their companies and products are drawing the world together - but they are too engaged in the struggle for profit to see the larger picture. Governments are concerned that globalization diminishes their importance, but free markets depend on transparency and the rule of law, which only government can provide.

One of the unique and primary goals of this Roundtable discussion was moveing the debate about globalization from a consideration of winners and losers toward a fundamental reappraisal of liberty in the 21st century.

PHONE: 202/220-1388
E-MAIL: info@ashburninstitute.org

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The second Roundtable, " Global Economy and Economic Justice: the Challenge and the Promise ," was held in February 2005. Representatives from countries with different levels of economic development were at the table. Participants will discuss economic and political strategies for achieving "liberty and justice for all." 

PHONE: 202/220-1388
E-MAIL: info@ashburninstitute.org

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The third Roundtable, " Global Governance: Opportunities and Desirability ," was held in June 2005. Public policy theorists and practitioners took part this discussion. Participants exploreed the potential for global governance, the possibilities for greater international cooperation, and the limitations that globalization may impose upon national sovereignty. 

PHONE: 202/220-1388
E-MAIL: info@ashburninstitute.org

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