FridayOL

The ongoing trade war between the United States and other nations has dominated headlines, with discussions primarily centered around geopolitical strategies and corporate bottom lines. However, a leading feminist scholar is urging policymakers to shift their focus and acknowledge the significant impact these tariffs and trade disputes are having on ordinary workers.

Dr. Anya Sharma, a renowned expert in gender and economics, argues that the human cost of trade wars is often overlooked. “We’re seeing a lot of talk about trade deficits and strategic advantages, but very little discussion about the families and communities that are being directly affected by job losses and economic uncertainty,” she stated in a recent interview.

Sharma’s concern stems from the disproportionate impact trade wars often have on vulnerable populations, particularly women and low-wage workers. She points to historical examples where protectionist policies have led to factory closures, reduced wages, and increased job insecurity, often pushing women into precarious employment situations or exacerbating existing inequalities.

“When tariffs are imposed, companies often respond by cutting costs, and unfortunately, the first to feel the pinch are frequently workers,” Sharma explains. “Women, who are often employed in manufacturing and export-oriented industries, are particularly vulnerable to these job losses.”

Beyond the immediate economic consequences, Sharma highlights the social and psychological toll that trade wars take on workers and their families. The stress of job insecurity, the disruption of communities, and the erosion of social safety nets can have lasting effects on mental health and overall well-being.

The Need for a Human-Centred Approach

Sharma advocates for a more human-centred approach to trade policy, one that prioritizes the well-being of workers and considers the potential impact on vulnerable populations. She suggests several policy interventions, including:

• Investment in retraining and upskilling programs: To help workers adapt to changing economic conditions and acquire new skills for in-demand jobs.
• Strengthening social safety nets: Providing unemployment benefits, healthcare, and other support services to those who lose their jobs.
• Promoting fair trade practices: Ensuring that trade agreements include provisions to protect workers’ rights and environmental standards.
• Engaging with workers and communities: Creating platforms for workers and communities to voice their concerns and participate in trade policy decisions.

“Trade policy shouldn’t be made in a vacuum, detached from the realities of people’s lives,” Sharma emphasizes. “Policymakers have a responsibility to consider the human consequences of their decisions and to implement policies that protect the most vulnerable.”

Her call for a more equitable and inclusive approach to trade policy resonates with a growing movement advocating for greater social and economic justice. As the trade war continues to unfold, Sharma’s message serves as a crucial reminder that the pursuit of economic gains should not come at the expense of human dignity and well-being. The focus needs to shift from abstract economic indicators to the real-life impact on the workers whose livelihoods are at stake.

Ultimately, a sustainable and just trade system requires a commitment to protecting workers' rights and ensuring that the benefits of trade are shared broadly across society. Ignoring the human cost of trade wars is not only morally questionable but also economically short-sighted.