What role do human rights play in international trade and investment agreements, and how can countries find a balance between protecting human rights and promoting trade and investment?
Human rights are an important consideration for international trade and investment agreements. They provide a framework for ensuring that businesses operate ethically and responsibly, and they help to create a more just and equitable global economy.

In international trade agreements, human rights standards can be used as a tool to promote fair competition and protect the interests of workers and consumers. For example, they can be used to ensure that products are produced in ways that respect human dignity and freedom, and that workers have access to safe and healthy working conditions.

Similarly, human rights can also be incorporated into investment treaties to encourage responsible behavior by foreign investors. These treaties can require companies to comply with local laws and regulations, and to respect human rights principles such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion.

It is important to strike a balance between protecting human rights and promoting trade and investment. This requires careful consideration of both the potential benefits and risks associated with each approach. For instance, it may be necessary to implement measures to address human rights abuses while still allowing for free trade and investment. Additionally, governments should work together to develop policies and practices that prioritize human rights and promote sustainable development across all levels of society.