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The Movement of Natural Persons Under the General Agreement on Trade in Services and its Impact on Arab Countries

Symbol: 
E/ESCWA/GRID/2007/11
Issued in: 
2007

The movement of natural persons is a major concern for developing countries, where the labour force is seen as a major pillar for development. This study highlights the marked disparity in unemployment rates, income levels and production structure among Arab countries. It examines the movement of natural persons under the General Agreement on Trade in Services and in relation to international trade. It sets out the obligations of Arab countries in this respect, their stand in the ongoing World Trade Organization negotiations on the movement of natural persons and the expected results of those negotiations. It also provides examples of practical implementation in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, and offers recommendations to Arab countries on importing and exporting employment.