UN Trade & Development High-level IIA Conference took place in December
Experts and policy-makers convened at a recent conference to discuss the crucial need to integrate sustainable development into international investment agreements (IIAs). The conference highlighted the growing trend of incorporating environmental protection, climate change, labour rights, and public health considerations into IIAs. While acknowledging progress made in newer agreements, participants emphasized the urgent need for broader reform of the existing IIA landscape. Discussions focused on the challenges of updating older agreements and the importance of regional and mega-regional initiatives in driving progress towards a more sustainable and inclusive investment regime.