The Trade and Regional Integration Committee of the National Assembly today engaged on a workshop on Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) organized by ActionAid The Gambia.
This initiative provided a timely platform for the Committee to deepen Hon. Members’ understanding of the complexities surrounding BITs, particularly their implications for national sovereignty, economic development, and investor protection.
The Committee recognizes that such engagements are crucial in equipping stakeholders with the knowledge needed to balance the interests of foreign investors with the developmental priorities of the Gambian people.
The workshop highlighted critical issues such as the potential risks of investor–state dispute settlement mechanisms, the importance of safeguarding policy space for governments, and the need to align investment agreements with national development strategies.
These discussions are particularly relevant as The Gambia continues to strengthen its position within regional economic blocs and pursue sustainable growth. The Committee values ActionAid’s contribution in fostering dialogue that bridges technical expertise with grassroots perspectives, ensuring that investment treaties serve the broader public interest rather than narrow corporate gains.
Moving forward, the Committee is committed to integrating the insights gained from this workshop into its legislative and oversight functions. It will continue to engage with civil society organizations, development partners, and regional institutions to promote fair and transparent investment frameworks.
By doing so, the Committee aims to ensure that The Gambia’s participation in bilateral and regional agreements contributes to inclusive economic transformation, protects national resources, and advances the welfare of all citizens.
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