The Impact of Global Trade Agreements on National Sovereignty: A Legal Review

Abstract

Global trade agreements have become a central feature of the modern international economic landscape, fostering economic integration and facilitating trade across borders. However, these agreements often raise concerns about their impact on national sovereignty, particularly regarding the ability of states to regulate domestic matters in accordance with their own laws and policies. This paper provides a legal review of the impact of global trade agreements on national sovereignty, examining key agreements such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, regional trade agreements (RTAs), and bilateral investment treaties (BITs). By analyzing legal cases, treaty provisions, and scholarly perspectives, the paper explores the tension between the benefits of economic globalization and the preservation of state sovereignty. The review highlights the legal mechanisms that trade agreements use to influence domestic policy and discusses the implications for national sovereignty, regulatory autonomy, and democratic governance.