Identifying the components of each trade measure which may give rise to significant economic, social or environmental impacts (according to different scenarios and for different country groups). Identifying the cause-effect routes through which these impacts are likely to occur. Determining the significance of the impacts, using indicators and significance criteria.
In 1999, the European Commission commissioned an independent assessment of the impact that future trade negotiations would have on sustainable development world-wide.
A sustainability assessment of the impact of both past and proposed future WTO liberalization must be undertaken by the US and EU with the full participation of civil society.