Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs)

Overview

Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) are legally binding international treaties through which countries cooperate to address global and regional environmental challenges. These agreements focus on protecting the environment, conserving natural resources, and promoting sustainable development through collective action.

Objectives of MEAs

The main objectives of MEAs are to prevent environmental degradation, protect biodiversity, combat climate change, and manage hazardous substances and waste. By setting common standards and commitments, MEAs encourage countries to take coordinated action on environmental issues that transcend national borders.

Key Features

MEAs establish obligations for participating countries, including regulatory measures, reporting requirements, and compliance mechanisms. Many agreements provide technical assistance, financial support, and capacity-building for developing countries. Notable MEAs include the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Basel Convention on hazardous waste.

Relationship with WTO Rules

MEAs generally coexist with WTO trade rules, although tensions can arise where environmental measures affect international trade. The WTO recognises the importance of environmental protection and allows certain trade-related environmental measures under specific conditions, such as those outlined in GATT Article XX. Efforts continue to ensure coherence and mutual support between MEAs and the multilateral trading system.

Significance in Global Governance

MEAs play a crucial role in global environmental governance by promoting international cooperation and accountability. They contribute to sustainable development by balancing environmental protection with economic activity, reinforcing the link between trade, development, and environmental responsibility.