People

Summary of Restraint Of Princes, Rulers, And People

A stipulation in the Hague Agreement by which common carriers by sea are exempt from liability for losses to cargo arising from the acts of sovereign states.

(Main Author: William J. Miller)

Flow of People

The crossing of borders by people to enable greater trade and investment.

Two direct benefits of international travel and flow of people are increased trade and investment. Despite the positive economic impacts that result from increased travel and the trade-related flow of people, many developing countries are unable to achieve international standards for ease of passages, and face harsh barriers such as poor infrastructure, political instability, and threats of violence. Flow of people in Bangladesh

In recent years, however, investors’ wariness of participating in international trade with conflicted and underdeveloped countries has lessened for several reasons. First, investors are realizing the potential business opportunities in these relatively untapped areas. Second, governments, private institutions, and the general public are making significant changes to encourage visitors, trade, and foreign direct investment (FDI).

Governments of developing nations are improving their legal framework to support fundamental trade facilitation principles for the flow of people. They are beginning to recognize the importance of sound rules, regulations, and programs in facilitating tourism and business travel.

The implementing institutions responsible for administering and monitoring the flow of people are improving their operational systems for both short-term and longer trade-related stays. Significant efforts have been made to reduce travel restrictions, streamline processes, and improve automation upgrades. In addition, these institutions are ensuring that the visa process is smooth, efficient, transparent, and timely, and that the extension-approval process is not cumbersome. Numerous countries have implemented the following creative and effective legal and operational programs: limited exemption visa programs that allow nationals of designated countries to reside in a different country for a given number of days without a visa; visa acquisition at border sites upon arrival; and online application and receipt of “e-visas” within three days.

Moreover, the ongoing donations of foreign governments and donors targeted at improving countries’ abilities to train and mentor staff, battle corruption, and improve automation and technology capabilities at the implementing institutions are having positive impacts and strengthening investors’ confidence. The rise of the tourism industry, in turn, is supporting further improvements in a broad group of related economic areas, including banking and infrastructure.