Free Trade Agreements And Labor Protections: Analyzing The Impact An Indian Legal Perspective

Written by: T. Sherin Nova , B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year), Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University

&

Janani , Assistant Professor , Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) on labour protections from an Indian legal perspective. While FTAs promote economic growth, foreign investment, export expansion, and employment generation, they also create challenges relating to wage suppression, contractual employment, informalization of labour, weakened trade unions, and occupational insecurity. The study analyses the constitutional framework, labour legislations, Labour Codes, and significant judicial decisions governing labour welfare in India. It highlights the tension between economic liberalization and workers’ rights, particularly in labour-intensive and export-oriented industries. The paper further evaluates the role of the judiciary in safeguarding labour dignity and proposes policy reforms to ensure that trade liberalization aligns with constitutional principles of social justice, equality, and humane working conditions. The study concludes that sustainable economic development can only be achieved through a balanced approach that protects labour rights alongside international trade expansion.

Keywords: Free Trade Agreements, Labour Protections, Globalization, Labour Rights, Trade Liberalization, Constitutional Law, Labour Codes, Social Justice, Employment Security, Trade Unions, Informal Labour, Wage Protection, Occupational Safety, Indian Labour Law, Economic Liberalization

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