APEC has been criticised for promoting free trade agreements that would impose restrictions on national and local laws, which regulate and ensure labour rights, environmental protection and safe and affordable access to medicine.[56] According to the organisation, it is "the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region" established to "further enhance economic growth and prosperity for the region and to strengthen the Asia-Pacific community".[57] The effectiveness and fairness of its role has been questioned, especially from the viewpoints of European countries that cannot take part in APEC[58] and Pacific Island nations that cannot participate but stand to be affected by its decisions.