The relationship between trade and human rights has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years. While trade can be an engine for the economic growth needed to combat poverty and promote development, it can also threaten human rights in some situations. The objective of this publication is to provoke discussion on the use of general exception clauses in World Trade Organization agreements as a means of ensuring that trade agreements maintain the flexibility needed for WTO members to meet their obligations under international human rights law. In particular, it sets out to demonstrate how three specific exceptions – allowing States to take measures to protect public morals, human life or health, and public order – could be relevant to human rights.