About
Purpose of the Study
The EU–Thailand Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) analyses the potential economic, social, human rights, and environmental effects of a future EU–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), supporting DG TRADE in integrating sustainability into trade negotiations.
Who Are We
The SIA is carried out by a consortium led by Milieu Consulting (Belgium), with LSE Consulting (UK), Tutwa Europe (Netherlands), and the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). Together, they bring expertise in trade, economic, and policy analysis, sustainability research, and stakeholder engagement in both the EU and Thailand.
The Approach
The study follows a comprehensive, participatory approach combining quantitative and qualitative analysis, sectoral and cross-cutting assessments, and consultations with stakeholders from the EU and Thailand. IIt is guided by the EU’s Handbook for trade sustainability impact assessment.
What are Sustainability Impact Assessments (SIAs)?
Sustainability Impact Assessments (SIAs) are a tool used by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Trade (DG TRADE) to analyse the potential economic, social, human rights and environmental effects of major trade negotiations. They are carried out by independent consultants and combine quantitative analysis with stakeholder consultations in the EU and partner countries, helping to ensure that trade agreements support sustainable development and reflect stakeholders’ concerns. More information on SIAs is available on the European Commission’s website.
The Project Team
The SIA is implemented by a consortium with extensive experience in trade and sustainability assessments:
Milieu Consulting - Lead Partner
Overall coordination of the study, the environmental and human rights analysis, quality assurance, and lead responsibility for stakeholder engagement and communication.
London School of Economics Consulting
Conceptual guidance, the social analysis, case study analysis, trade expertise, and quantitative research.
Tutwa Europe
The economic analysis, case study analysis, trade expertise, policy analysis, trade-development linkages.
Thailand Development Research Institute
Local research support, stakeholder consultations, and contextual analysis of sustainability issues in Thailand.
Guiding Principles
We are committed to:
01.
Transparency
Open access to information and methodology.
02.
Inclusiveness
Meaningful engagement of stakeholders in both the EU and Thailand.
03.
Evidence-based policy
Combining rigorous research with practical recommendations.
Project Management
Management of the SIA requires a well-organised team with clear roles and responsibilities, as well as effective coordination, management and quality oversight.
Provides overall strategic direction, quality control, and liaison with the European Commission.
Dr Elitsa Garnizova is a Senior Project Manager and Researcher at LSE Consulting and leads LSE Consulting’s Trade Policy Hub. She has more than 7 years of experience with European Commission and other government projects in the area of trade and investment. She specialises in non-tariff measures, regulatory issues, free trade agreements, and sustainability issues.
Tony Zamparutti is a principal policy advisor at Milieu, with over 25 years’ experience in environmental policy and economic analysis, including on the links between environment, sustainable development, trade and international investment.
Manages project delivery, coordinates team members, and oversees day-to-day operations.
Experts in economic, social, environmental, and human right, coupled with experts in trade and the Thai context, will support the quantitative and qualitative impact assessment across these areas.
Do you want to shape a sustainable future for EU-Thailand trade relations?
Join the dialogue and contribute to the project.
Contact the SIA project team or share your feedback through the Contributions page.