Labor Unions Urge Opposition To Russia MFN Over Enforcement Provisions

摘要

Key U.S. labor unions this week came out against legislation that would effectively grant Russia permanent most-favored nation (MFN) status, arguing that it contains weak provisions for enforcing Russia's compliance with its World Trade Organization commitments. They did so in four letters sent to Congress by the AFL-CIO; United Steel workers (USW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA); the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; and the United Autoworkers (UAW). Some observers this week said this late-breaking opposition - just weeks ago, for instance, the AFL-CIO did not have a formal position on the Russia MFN legislation - could make it harder to pass the Russia bill under suspension of House rules. That requires a two-thirds majority, which may not be achievable if fewer Democrats are willing to support the bill.