Many farmers,
artisans and producers in developing countries find challenges
when providing for themselves and their families. Poor market access
and trade rules often mean that the price they get for their crop
or handcraft does not cover the cost of production, much less other
basic necessities such as food, clothing, education and medical
expenses.
Fair Trade is a rapidly growing international
movement which seeks to guarantee a better deal for farmers, artisans
and producers in the developing world. It works to establish an
equitable and fair business partnership between companies in North
America and producers in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe
and other parts of the world. A Fair Trade partnership
provides
low-income
artisans and farmers with a living wage for their work.
Fair Trade Federation (FTF) criteria are:
• Paying a fair wage in the local context.
• Offering employees opportunities for advancement.
• Providing equal employment opportunities for all people, particularly
the most
disadvantaged.
• Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices.
• Being open to public accountability.
• Building long-term trade relationships.
• Providing healthy and safe working conditions within the local context.
• Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible.
Find out more by visiting the following
online resources:
http://www.fairtradefederation.org
http://www.fairtraderesource.org
http://www.transfairusa.org
http://www.ifat.org |
