Search the SPREP Catalogue

The initiative supports environment and health actors working together to address issues of common concern. Traditionally, health and environment sectors have acted independently of one another, each in defined domains. While much can and has been achieved, HELI aims to add a further dimension by focusing specifically on the large and important range of decisions which cannot be taken by one sector alone – and require a coordinated approach.

T he World Trade Organization (WTO) is the international organization dealing with rules of trade between nations. Although the WTO became officially operational only in January 1995, it is the successor to the GATT multilateral trading system founded in 1947. In becoming Members of the WTO, countries undertake to abide by its rules. As of 30 November 2000, the WTO counted 140 Members. The WTO is charged with setting the legal ground rules for international trade. Its objectives are to promote: (1) non-discrimination (2) progressive liberalization of barriers to trade (3) predictable policies and transparency (4) competition and (5) special provisions for developing countries.