The concept of sustainability and its application in international trade, investment and finance

Abstract

Our introductory chapter considers the historical and contemporary relevance of sustainability to responsible trade, investment and finance, with particular reference to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In so doing, we examine the complex role of the European Union as a proponent of sustainability objectives and the extent to which these aims are integrated or otherwise in the global regimes operating in respect of trade and investment. In this way, we explore the scope for Policy Coherence for Development and sustainability within contemporary international, regional and domestic legal and policy frameworks.