WTO moots 'rules of engagement' for anti-globalisation protests
http://www.dailystarnews.com/200107/07/n1070705.htm#BODY5
AFP, Geneva
WTO chief Mike Moore on Friday called for the setting up of a code of conduct to ensure anti-globalisation protestors voice their opposition without it spilling over into violence. Moore told a symposium on issues surrounding the world trading system that violence by protestors was no substitute for dialogue, nor did it aid democracy to prevent ministers from meeting.
He said real campaigners should distance themselves from anarchists.
"It would strengthen the hand of those who seek change if some NGOs (non-governmental organisations) would distance themselves from masked stone-throwers who claim to want more transparency, anti-globalisation dot.com types who trot out slogans that are trite, shallow and superficial," Moore said.
"This will not do as a substitute for civilised discourse," he added.
Moore, who is director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), said civil society, international institutions and governments should all discuss and agree on a code of conduct.
It could include the rejection of violence, NGO transparency on membership, financing and decision-making rules and for governments, business and foundations to insist on rules of transparency and adhere to a code before providing funding.
"Governments and their institutions should in return give those who follow such rules a better stake in the process," Moore said, adding however that only governments can conduct negotiations.
The two-day symposium, which began on Friday at WTO headquarters is open to NGO representatives, as well as governments, media and academics. http://www.dailystarnews.com/200107/07/n1070705.htm#BODY5
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