I'd argue it hurts both, for the following reasons: 1. It's conducted in secret, i.e. people aren't allowed to learn the content of the negotiations.

I'd argue it hurts both, for the following reasons: 1. It's conducted in secret, i.e. people aren't allowed to learn the content of the negotiations. 2. From what has leaked so far, it's under heavy influence of lobbying. E.g. the record industry and Disney lobbying for eternal copyright, patent-trolls and big pharma for broader patent scope, etc. 3. ISDS is a backdoor through which companies can overrule national laws. There are lengthy arguments online on the downsides with this. Besides, it's not like property rights are magically weak in EU/US, they are pretty strong already. -- I love free trade -- Reduction/removal of tariffs, tolls etc. are great. I'm strongly in favor of that! But this seems to be mostly a lobbying effort, hidden from public scrutiny. -- What Europeans can do -- If you live in Europe, I'd suggest emailing thoughtful, well-written comments on the TTIP to the commissioner (weak or angry arguments will only hurt the case). http://ec.europa.eu/commission/2014-2019/malmstrom/team_en http://ec.europa.eu/commission/2014-2019/malmstrom/team_en -- What Americans can do -- EFF suggested contacting D.C. representatives.