Resistance to internationally agreed standards

Failure to conform to internationally agreed standards
Insufficient standardization
Inadequate harmonization of standards

Nature

Differing standards constitute a significant barrier to the free movement of goods between countries.

Background

Resistance to internationally agreed standards emerged as a significant global concern in the late 20th century, as efforts to harmonize regulations in areas such as trade, environmental protection, and human rights intensified. Initial recognition arose from high-profile disputes at international forums, where divergent national interests and cultural values hindered consensus. Over time, the persistence of non-compliance and selective adoption highlighted the complexity of achieving uniformity, prompting deeper analysis of political, economic, and social barriers to standardization.

Incidence

In 1988 it was estimated that the costs of such standards in impeding trade throughout the European Community was ECU 20 billion.

Claim

Resistance to internationally agreed standards is a grave and urgent problem. It undermines global cooperation, threatens public safety, and erodes trust between nations. When countries or organizations refuse to comply, they jeopardize progress on critical issues like health, security, and the environment. This selfish defiance not only stalls innovation but also endangers lives and destabilizes the international order. We must confront and overcome this resistance to ensure a safer, more just world for all.

Counter-claim

Efforts to promote common European health standards should not impinge on the diversity and character of Europe's food and drink. The very phrase "minimum hygiene standards" should strike terror into the hearts of any true-born Frenchman. There are many people who would find that life is not worth living unless you have a choice of all the gloriously unhygienic things which humankind – especially the French portion of it – has lovingly created, notably bacteria-contaminated soft cheeses.

Resistance to internationally agreed standards

Nature

Background

Incidence

Claim

Counter-claim

Broader

Narrower

Aggravates

Aggravated by

Reduces

Reduced by

Strategy

Value

Reference

SDG

Metadata