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Fair trade is not merely an ethical slogan but is also a worldwide movement that not only empowers the producer, secures the worker but also respects human dignity. Fair trade promotes human rights and empower communities all over the world, as a direct way of ensuring fair wages, safe working practices, and sustainable practices. Also see What Are Human Rights Violations?. Starting with coffee growers in Latin America up to the artisans in Africa and Asia, fair trade prevents exploitation as well as fosters equality. In a world where forced labor and unfair pay are still experienced by many, one can easily decide to buy fair trade products as a simple but effective way of making a positive change to the people and the planet. Learn more about human rights and fair work policies on our Human Rights page.
Ensuring Fair Wages and Decent Work
Fair compensation is the main concept of fair trade. The minimum guaranteed price ensures that farmers and workers get a price which is sustainable and protects against fluctuations in the market environment. It is a strategy that leads to economic stability and births of workers that are able to help their families through food, shelter and education. Through fair practices in labor, fair trade also fights against child labor and exploitation by providing all workers with a right to dignified living.
Promoting Gender Equality and Empowerment
Fair trade is also very active in empowering women by creating equal opportunities at the place of work. Most fair trade cooperatives have women oriented programs, training, leadership and financial autonomy. These opportunities enable women to be recognized and have a say in their respective communities and it stops any cycles of poverty and discrimination that tends to bind them.
Protecting the Environment and Communities
Environmental protection and human rights go hand in hand. Fair trade practices promote environmentally friendly farming methods such as the minimization of the use of pesticides, reforestation as well as proper water management. The sustainable practices guarantee communities can enjoy clean air, fertile soil and safe water as some of the basic rights that are usually jeopardized by industrial production and climate change.
Encouraging Ethical Consumer Choices
Every purchase has power. By purchasing fair trade-certified products, the consumers will contribute to ethical supply chains and build a global atmosphere of fairness. It is a deliberate choice that contributes to the establishment of a long-term change by making corporations responsible and treating every employee with respect and fairness.
Also read: 15 Celebrities Who Advocate for Human Rights Worldwide
