Trinity Johnson, a second-year master’s degree candidate in International Affairs focusing on trade and development, has been published in Princeton’s Journal of Public and International Affairs with her work titled “When Life Gives You Lemons: How EU Citrus Standards Can Limit Trade.“
Johnson’s unique perspective on international trade, particularly with the European Union (EU) and its stringent regulations on imported food products, stems from her internship with the Department of Agriculture. Her interest in this topic was sparked by discussions on the challenges faced by exporting nations in meeting EU standards. She explores the implications of these regulations, especially for developing countries, shedding light on how these standards might pose challenges for countries with limited resources.
Despite the EU’s reputation for maintaining high food safety and quality standards, Johnson raises the critical question of whether these regulations hinder developing countries’ ability to export their products to EU markets. Through her research, she scrutinizes how these standards may act as barriers to trade, potentially impeding economic growth and development in these regions.
Johnson’s commitment to addressing pressing global issues is evident in her active project involvement. She collaborates with the Mosbacher Institute, contributing to studying El Salvador’s criminalization policies and their impact on migration to the United States. Recently, she presented her findings at the FED in Dallas, highlighting the practical application and significance of her research in shaping policy discourse.
Additionally, her capstone project with Dr. Ren Mu, sponsored by the World Bank, focuses on family education investment in China. “With the World Bank as our esteemed client, we’re gearing up to travel to Washington, D.C., in early May to present our insights, further solidifying the practical application of our academic endeavors,” says Johnson.
Johnson’s dedication to academic excellence is recognized through her selection as a Hermann Fellow. Her research enriches discussions on global trade dynamics, emphasizing the need for nuanced approaches to regulation. She advocates for a more inclusive and sustainable global trading system that prioritizes the needs of all nations, regardless of their economic standing. Her work stimulates further exploration, urging policymakers and stakeholders to balance regulatory standards and inclusive trade practices.
To read more about Trinity Johnson’s article, click here.
