It is generally accepted that global welfare is best served by a liberal economic order. However, there is stark evidence that the globalizing of liberal economic development has brought with it increased political, cultural, social and economic dislocation. This book challenges the general consensus and seeks a new understanding of the relationship between world trade and social issues. The authors first examine ways in which we choose to understand world trade and the changes taking place within this. They then address the impact of global trade upon: * human rights * women * the environment * labour Discussion then turns to key issues for the management of global trade and challenges facing the World Trade Organisation. In Global Trade and Global Social Issues leading academics and NGO workers offer a much-needed counterweight to the liberal consensus. A critical reflection on the whole project of restructuring world trade, this is essential reading for those working in international political economy, development studies, international relations and environmental studies.