This article offers a series of reflections concerning the repercussions and implications of the FTA in the specific case of Ecuador. In particular, the author sustains that the agreement cannot be considered simply in terms of trade and that it should be reevaluated in relation to its potential implications for Ecuadorian society as a whole. Within this framework, the text explores the international conditions that have surrounded the negotiation process in order to assess its effects in Ecuador. The author concludes that under the current conditions characterizing the FTA negotiations, the risks of signing the agreement are much greater that the potential benefits of doing so.

Free Trade Agreement --- commercial opening --- competitiveness.

The negotiation of a Free Trade Agreement between Colombia and the United States has led to discussions of the negative consequences that such an accord might have for Colombian security in the event that the rural economy is further weakened. Although the relation between deteriorating economic conditions in the countryside and a worsened security environment is easy to establish, establishing a link between agricultural development and improved security is not as simple. This article suggests that a FTA that spurs rural economic development could improve Colombia’s security situation, but it could also have the unexpected effect of increasing security by providing resources to illegal armed groups. The author argues that in order for economic development to have a positive effect upon the security issue, it should be complemented with the development of private and public institutions, and adequate guarantees of public order on the part of the state.

Security --- rural development --- public order --- institutions --- Free Trade Agreement.

This text offers a series of reflections concerning the relationship between trade and the environment, in light of the effects that a Free Trade Agreement might have for environmental norms and institutions. The first part of the article examines the implications of extending intellectual property rights to the specific case of biological diversity. In the second second, the author analyzes existing multilateral agreements concerning the environment. Finally, the relation between environmental institutionality and citizen participation in this area is studied.

Environment --- trade --- biological diversity --- Free Trade Agreement --- intellectual property right .