EU, Trading and human rights: consistent framework?

Abstract

The relationship between European Union and International Human Rights Law has not always been close. The global projection of the EU, specially, its interest in becoming a leader in international trade, is facing its negative impact in some territories, specially those affected by human rights violation or negation of fundamental rules of International Law, such as ius cogens self-determination of people. This paper will examine to what extend the practice of the European Union trading with occupying and administrative powers in some territories could jeopardise its compliance with its own values and principles.