MINER DETAILS (June 22, 1992)

Whether we’re ready or not, a global economy will be a reality of the next decade and century. And in this world of interdependence hurtling toward us, those that can’t accommodate cultural and social differences and those that can’t navigate change will be left in the dust.

A global economy can be viewed as an unprecedented opportunity to improve the quality of life of millions who daily battle poverty. It can be viewed as an engine of change to bring about a new era of economic growth far more environmentally sound and socially equitable than before.

But in some developed nations, including Canada, many fear that economic gains made by other countries will undermine our prosperity at home. As the trade barriers fall, more concerns surface about our ability to compete. Canadian Labour Congress President Bob White intends to join forces with the New Democratic Party, anti-poverty groups, the women’s movement and any other group willing to join his fight against “the right-wing corporate agenda,” namely free trade, privatization, deregulation, and the erosion of public and social services.

Many environmental groups also fear a global economy and continue to advocate “no-growth” policies at home and abroad. Elitists already enjoying good living standards may find this attractive, but it seems a heartless policy to foist on millions whose basic needs have yet to be met.

Governments, perceived by business as “massive generators of competitive handicaps,” are also finding that the changing world economy is challenging their attitudes, assumptions and spending habits of the past. All these polarized divisions within Canadian society make the problem of developing an economic strategy to maintain our prosperity in fast-changing times more complex. But there are encouraging signs.

Despite White’s tough talk, many labor leaders are advocating a more collaborative relationship with employers. Business is trying to find common ground with non-radical environmental groups, particularly those beginning to accept that free enterprise has a role to play in achieving “sustainable development.”

Industry sectors, including mining, have already identified a series of competitive shortfalls, including our failing education system. The big task now is for government, industry and labor to work together and get solutions in place before our prosperity is seriously damaged.