Trade Agreements and Public Health: A Primer for Health Policy Makers, Researchers and Advocates (Palgrave Studies in Public Health Policy Research)

Review\n“The contradictions between public health priorities and trade agreements are perhaps some of the most important challenges of 21st century capitalism. This highly readable book demystifies these challenges by providing a comprehensive overview of the key linkages, areas of concern and some suggestions for reform. Intended for an audience in global health, this primer is also essential reading for policy makers, researchers and activists in the field of trade.” (Sakiko Fukuda-Parr, Professor of International Affairs, The New School)
“Community health and health care are increasingly influenced by trade relations which are increasingly governed by trade agreements. The emergent health challenge is to steer the negotiations and implementation of such agreements away from health-damaging provisions. Gleeson and Labonté’s “primer” is a unique contribution which will prove invaluable in addressing this challenge; assisting health officials to promote policy coherence; assisting researchers in tracing impacts; and supporting health practitioners and activists in monitoring and advocacy.” (David Legge, Convenor of People’s Health Movement’s Trade and Health Circle)
“An essential read for health policy makers, researchers and advocates who want to take a leadership role in making trade and trade agreements work to improve health outcomes. This well researched and evidence-based book gives the reader the elements to participate in a constructive dialogue to ensure trade increases access to health services, lowers the costs of medicines, vaccines and medical devices and reduces harmful products crossing borders.” (Nick Drager M.D., Ph.D. Honorary Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine)
“The intent of global free trade is to increase opportunities to enrich people across the world. However, current international trade negotiations have become complex, difficult to understand and a mystery to the ordinary people they are supposed to enrich. Gleeson and Labonté provide sensible, readable and academically sound insights into the tools required to ensure priority for the most important enrichment―the health of the people and the health of the planet.” (Michael Moore AM, Immediate Past President of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (2016-2018))\nThe need for policy coherence between trade and health has never been greater, yet few public health workers are equipped to navigate this complex field. This book aims to fill this gap, providing a focused and readable introduction to the topic. It introduces the principles underpinning trade treaties and examines the implications of trade rules for health services and access to medicines, unhealthy commodities, labour rights and the environment. It explores the trade policy making process, methods for trade and health research, and recommendations for strengthening policy coherence.