Publication

This paper 1) provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of US free trade agreements (FTAs); 2) examines the current debate over investor-state dispute settlements (ISDS) in the US; and 3) explores the increasing relevance of ISDS mechanisms in today’s world. The text’s author particularly focuses on the role and impact of ISDS provisions within NAFTA and the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations. In the latter case, the author believes that US Congressional approval of the TPP would set a more host state-friendly standard for ISDS, and thereby alleviate much of the strain that investment dispute settlements can place on the government.