Activists have been planning demonstrations since September. Opposition comes from diverse quarters, some better known than others, including Ralph Nader, who is very visible in organization particularly at colleges and universities. The MAI gives foreigners legal status equal to domestic investors. Countries choosing to sign such a treaty agree to admit foreign investment. Direct investment creates jobs.
Rich countries have more capital to invest than the poor countries.
So the rich countries will send their capital to the poor countries. This capital will create wealth and make the poor nations wealthier. The activists who are protesting the WTO press for controls on pollution emissions. Reducing pollution emissions would close factories in the Third World and harm the poor. The activists who are protesting the WTO are against biotechnology.