Final answer:
International trade can have both positive and negative effects on the working conditions of low-income countries. It can lead to improved working conditions with higher wages, but it can also exacerbate poor working conditions, especially when companies exploit the lower labor costs in those countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
International trade can have both positive and negative effects on the working conditions of low-income countries. On one hand, increased trade can lead to an improvement in working conditions due to increased demand for labor and higher wages. This is especially true when countries establish and enforce labor standards and regulations to protect workers' rights. For example, when multinational corporations invest in low-income countries, they often bring better technology and production techniques that can lead to higher wages and improved working conditions.
On the other hand, international trade can also exacerbate poor working conditions. In some cases, companies may take advantage of the lower labor costs in low-income countries and exploit workers by paying them below minimum wage or subjecting them to unsafe working conditions. Additionally, intense global competition can put pressure on businesses to cut costs, which may result in poor working conditions.
Therefore, the effect of international trade on working conditions in low-income countries is not uniform or predictable. It depends on various factors, including government regulation, enforcement of labor standards, and the behavior of multinational corporations.