CAFTA's Assult On Democracy

"What does tightening intellectual property laws have to do with "free" trade? That's the question many people in Central American and the Dominican Republic are asking as the United States trade representative continues to insist on dramatic changes to constitutional laws in the six countries involved in the US-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (otherwise known as CAFTA)."

"As if the agreement itself weren't bad enough for the region—critics say CAFTA will hurt small farmers, worsen workers rights, and lead to environmental degradation, among other negative effects—the US is manipulating the implementation process to demand even further concessions by the six countries involved."

This little article describes a few of the things we're doing to force this not-so-free trade agreement on Central Americans. It points out that many of the governments involved are acting exactly like U.S. puppets are supposed to act, in spite of local opposition.

For those unfamiliar with this latest corporate crusade, here are a few links to bring you up to speed:

What is CAFTA?

CAFTA-DR Final Text

Multimedia Information on CAFTA

STOP CAFTA