z 10.a - ReadySetGooo/Sustainable-Development-Goals GitHub Wiki

Implement the principle of special and differential treatment for developing countries, in particular least developed countries, in accordance with World Trade Organization agreements

Explanation

The World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements recognize that developing countries, especially the poorest ones (least developed countries), may need special consideration and flexibility in global trade rules. This is called "special and differential treatment."

For example, developing countries may be given more time to implement trade commitments, technical assistance to help their businesses meet standards and export, or exemptions that allow them to protect certain industries that are important for development or jobs. The idea is that one-size-fits-all trade rules can be unfair for countries at very different economic levels. Giving some special exceptions or leniency can allow developing countries to grow their economies and reduce poverty through trade, while gradually taking on more commitments over time as they are able. So this principle aims to make trade globalization more inclusive by adapting the rules based on countries' needs and capabilities.

The special exemptions or lenient trade rules given to developing countries under the principle of "special and differential treatment" have the potential to harm the environment in some cases. Here are a few examples of how this could happen:

• Lower environmental standards - Developing countries may be allowed to maintain lower environmental regulations and standards for industries such as manufacturing, mining, energy, and agriculture in order to boost economic growth. This can lead to more pollution, habitat destruction, and unsustainable resource extraction.
• Agricultural subsidies - Developing countries are sometimes allowed to subsidize agriculture to support food security and rural development. But subsidies can encourage excess use of chemicals, overuse of water resources, conversion of forests to farmland, and other unsustainable farming practices.
• Delayed commitments - Developing countries are typically given more time to commit to international environmental agreements and adoption of cleaner technologies. This delay allows pollution, emissions, and resource depletion to continue increasing in the meantime.
• Exemptions for polluting industries - Some key economic sectors in developing countries, such as coal and fossil fuels, may be exempted from global emissions reductions targets and timelines. This allows unchecked growth in major sources of air and water pollution.

However, the environmental harm is not inevitable. The special treatment clauses also provide avenues to increase transfer of clean technologies, technical assistance, and climate financing to help developing countries transition in a greener direction. Striking the right balance is key so economic growth does not come fully at the expense of the environment. Ongoing negotiations try to ensure special provisions promote both development and sustainability over the long-term.