The Future of North American Integration

When it came into force in 1994, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) joined the economic futures of Canada, Mexico and the US, with systematic rules governing trade and investment, dispute resolution and economic relations. However, economic integration among the three countries extends considerably beyond trade and investment. NAFTA takes a very narrow view of integration, barely addressing such vital issues as immigration policy and labour markets, the energy sector, environmental protection and law enforcement. The governments of Canada, Mexico and the US must now confront the question of whether NAFTA is enough. This volume contains discussions about the future of North America by experts from each of the three countries. It suggests the establishment of a new North American Commission that would seek input from citizens, experts and opinion leaders in the three countries and provide advice to the three national governments about the preparation and implementation of a "North American agenda". All the contributors encourage more systematic thinking among policymakers and citizens about the promise and challenges of further North American integration.