CLAS Colloquium on Trade

The second Colloquium explored trade in the western hemisphere, diving into traditional trade theory; recent trade policy changes, challenges, and opportunities; as well as the human impact of these changes.

Professor Mónica Baumgarten de Bolle provided a succinct overview of trade theory, explaining why Latin American countries choose protectionism or free trade. She highlighted that trade is a political and geopolitical tool as much as an economic instrument. Professor Barbara Kotschwar noted the significant gap between trade theory and practice. She cited the current administration’s tariff policy as an example, concurring with Professor Baumgarten to argue that tariffs serve not only as an economic strategy but also as a tool of political coercion. She emphasized the importance of looking beyond trade deficits to consider entire supply chains.

Professor Denise Brennan, serving as commentor, drew on her socio-cultural anthropology background to consider the state of international trade. She advocated to place laborers and people at the forefront of trade policy. She attributed the decline in workers’ rights to the “capitalist system,” which sparked disagreement and a lively conversation among her and the other panelists.

After the presentations, students asked clarifying questions and made connections between the content of their courses, their research, and the themes discussed. Students benefited from the differing expertise and opinions of the panelists, challenging them to approach trade with a holistic view.