The Government’s TPP Rhetoric (code for bullshit)

[rhett o rick]

The definition of rhetoric is – “Language designed to have persuasive or impressive effect, but which is often regarded as lacking in sincerity or meaningful content”. (www.oxforddictionaries.com/) Or just a fancy way of saying “bullshit”.

Rhetoric is very common in politics so it shouldn't be surprising to find the government’s website that explains the Trans-Pacific Partnership or TPP choked full of it. (https://ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements/trans-pacific-partnership/tpp-chapter-chapter-negotiating-5)

This site is a tremendous example of empty rhetoric. Let’s look at some:

Pertaining to the environment:
“Specifically, in the TPP we are seeking:
Strong and enforceable environment obligations, subject to the same dispute settlement mechanism as other obligations in TPP;

Commitments to effectively enforce domestic environmental laws, including laws that implement multilateral environmental agreements, and commitments not to waive or derogate from the protections afforded in environmental laws for the purpose of encouraging trade or investment; “

Pertaining to Labor:
“Specifically, in the TPP we are seeking:
Requirements to adhere to fundamental labor rights as recognized by the International Labor Organization, as well as acceptable conditions of work, subject to the same dispute settlement mechanism as other obligations in TPP;

Rules that will ensure that TPP countries do not waive or derogate from labor laws in a manner that affects trade or investment, including in free trade zones, and that they take initiatives to discourage trade in goods produced by forced labor;”

This is empty rhetoric. It is “lacking in sincerity or meaningful content”

It does not say that the agreement will include any of these wonderful things, only that they will “seek” them.

Will they insist that these good things be included before it’s signed, HELL NO.

Let me know when you can assure me that the agreement will protect the environment, labor, and all of our concerns.