What are the principles of fair trade?
Fair trade is not about charity or pity. It is a holistic approach to trade and development that aims to alter the ways in which commerce is conducted, so that trade can empower the poorest of the poor. Fair Trade Organizations seek to create sustainable and positive change in developing and developed countries by adhering to the following principles: • Creating Opportunities for Economically and Socially Marginalized Producers • Developing Transparent and Accountable Relationships • Building Capacity • Promoting Fair Trade • Paying Promptly and Fairly • Supporting Safe and Empowering Working Conditions • Ensuring the Rights of Children • Cultivating Environmental Stewardship • Respecting Cultural Identity Visit the Fair Trade Federation site (http://www.fairtradefederation.org) for more information on each of the principles shown above.
