| What is Fair
Trade? Millions of
families in developing countries don't get a fair share of the wealth created by their own
skill and effort and the resources of their land. This is largely because of the way
international trade is controlled by richer countries. It's a system which is both unjust
and a major cause of continuing world poverty.
Traidcraft and Oxfam are working to
change this injustice, by creating opportunities - for people in developing countries to
work their way to a better quality of life, and for people here to join a movement for
change that's working for the fairer conduct of international trade.
Fair Trade means that the producers
who make the goods you buy get a price that fairly rewards their work and skills. Getting
paid a fair deal can help people take control of their lives, have enough to live without
worrying about their next meal, and be able to plan for the future, such as sending their
children to school or investing in their business.
Fair Trade producers also need to
have decent working conditions and a safe working environment. There is no enforced labour
of children or adults, and workers are able to organise and have a say in how they work.
It's hard to overestimate the difference that Fair Trade can make to people's lives.
Everyone can
take action to help the Fair Trade mission. Find out how you
too can campaign for Fair Trade.
For more background on Fair Trade,
you can visit the Oxfam GB
and Traidcraft websites. |

"At private workshops I
had to work in dingy rooms, no light or windows. The pay too was low. Here at Tara there
is a world of difference. Well lit, airy rooms. These exhaust fans are very effective,
they suck the dust away from us I am happy here and earn much more than what I earned with
private traders." Ashok Kumar, stone polisher with Tara workshopsTara workshops are a trust, selling for
community business groups in northern India. Workers are involved in Producers sit on the
central committee. Tara also encourages local development activities and campaigns against
child labour.
Photo by Rajendra Shaw |
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