Conflict Resolution and NAFTA

Abstract

On each end of the spectrum there are two ways we can deal with conflict. We can run away from conflict. Or, we can go to war over every conflict. These are two extremes. Most business people do not want to wage war over trade conflicts. This article speaks about the concept of conflict in order to highlight the difficulties involved in conflict resolution. Next it focuses on the conflict resolution provisions of NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement). These provisions are refinements from the experiences of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement and GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade). Lastly, the article compares the usual conflict resolution mechanisms with NAFTA.

Keywords: NAFTA, North American Free Trade Agreement, GATT, General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, Canadian Free Trade Agreement, conflict, resolution, trade