1/5 In my work I certainly make this assertion but in a specific context using capabilities theory to show how trade can and should lead to so much more than just economic growth. The international trading system is scaffolded on assumption that increasing trade leads to https://twitter.com/snlester/status/1358152624923639811

2/5 economic growth (development). Inverting the assumptions of the trading system reveals why it does not benefit every state equally. If we centre a broader conception of development in IEL - one that recognises the many dimensions of development and identifies the numerous

3/5 "trade and" issue linkages - then trade as a means to development (broadly understood) might be realised. By enhancing economic freedom we can enhance other freedoms, capabilities and entitlements...political, social, environmental and cultural.

4/5 some govt and private actors are interested in discovering ways to break free from the straitjacket of orthodox approaches but the system would need to be reoriented for this to be achieved on a global scale. The system currently conceived sustains existing & perpetuates new

5/5 power asymmetries and inequalities. The divide within and between countries is deepening. So, my point has always been that a better understanding of how trade intersects with other issue linkages is key to promoting "development" broadly understood.