In his latest article, my esteemed colleague Philip Zelikow, an emeritus history professor at the Hoover Institution, brings to light an important issue that is currently plaguing the global economy – the imposition of new tariffs. In his insightful piece, “The New Global Tariffs Are Also Unlawful,” Zelikow argues that these tariffs not only have detrimental economic effects, but they also violate international trade laws.
The recent move by the United States to impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada, Mexico, and the European Union has caused a stir in the international community. This decision has not only led to retaliatory measures by these countries, but it has also sparked a huge debate on the legality of such actions. Zelikow, with his vast knowledge and experience in history and international relations, sheds light on this contentious issue.
According to Zelikow, these tariffs are not only economically harmful but are also unlawful under the rules set by the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WTO, which has been in existence since 1995, is an international organization that aims to promote free trade and reduce barriers to trade. The WTO rules state that members must not discriminate against each other and must not impose tariffs that exceed the agreed-upon rates. Zelikow argues that the recent tariffs imposed by the United States violate these rules and are, therefore, unlawful.
But why should we care about these tariffs and their legality? Zelikow answers this question by highlighting the potential consequences of such actions. The immediate effect of these tariffs is an increase in the price of steel and aluminium products for consumers. This leads to a decrease in purchasing power and, in turn, affects the overall economy. Moreover, retaliatory measures taken by affected countries could also lead to a full-blown trade war, which would have catastrophic effects on the global economy.
Furthermore, Zelikow also points out the long-term implications of these tariffs. The United States, being a major player in the global economy, has a huge influence on international trade policies. By disregarding the WTO rules, the US is setting a dangerous precedent for other countries to follow. This could lead to a breakdown of the international trade system and a return to protectionism, which would have disastrous effects on global economic growth and stability.
Zelikow’s article serves as a wake-up call for policymakers and the general public. As he rightly states, “The new global tariffs are a bad idea that is also illegal.” It is crucial for countries to abide by the rules set by the WTO to ensure fair and free trade. Moreover, it is vital for governments to engage in dialogue and find solutions to resolve trade disputes rather than resort to unilateral actions such as imposing tariffs.
In conclusion, Zelikow’s article is a must-read for anyone interested in international trade and its impact on the global economy. His arguments are well-researched and backed by his vast knowledge and experience in the field. As his colleague, I applaud him for bringing this crucial issue to our attention and urge policymakers to take note of his words. Let us hope that this article sparks a much-needed conversation and leads to a resolution of the current trade tensions.