Fair Trade Principles
The World Fair Trade Organization has ten guidelines by which Fair Trade Organizations/Producer Groups must abide.
1. Creating Opportunities for Economically Disadvantaged People.
Providing work and securing sustainable markets is a practical and beautiful way to reach out to the most vulnerable, poorest people of our world. With vital income received, families lives are enriched. Children are educated , with this positive impact being carried down to further generations.
2. There is Transparency and Accountability
At all levels of the producer chain, there is honest, open communication and decision making. At the same time, privacy is respected with confidential information. Information when requested by buyers is supplied.
3.Fair Trading Practices
There is mutual agreement, trust and support developed between the producer groups and businesses who purchase the products. Long term relationships are built to provide sustainability to the artisans. The social, economic and environmental aspects are all considered.
4. Payment of a Fair Price
A fair price is paid to the producers ( in the local context) after mutual discussion with everyone involved. The consideration of a sustainable price for the buyers is also taken into account. A fair price respects equal pay for equal work for both women and men.
5. Ensuring No Child Labor and No Forced Labor
Fair Trade adheres to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child . Fair Trade also ensures that there is no forced labor involved, being either in a workplace or at home.
6. Commitment to Non Discrimination, Gender Equity and Women’s Economic Empowerment and Freedom of Association
Fair Trade does not discriminate in any way when employing. This includes with payment, access to training, promotion, termination or retirement based on race, caste, national origin, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation, union membership, political affiliation, HIV/Aids status or age.
7. Ensuring Good Working Conditions
Safe and healthy working environments are provided for the employees. At the minimum, the workers are provided with conditions and working hours compliant with National and Local Laws and ILO Conventions.
8.Providing Capacity Building
Fair Trade understands that there are difficulties to be overcome. However when producer groups , communities and fair trade organizations work together , an understanding is attained and development achieved.
9. Promoting Fair Trade
Fair Trade provides greater justice to the poorest of our world. It is our responsibility to be pro active and advocate the many advantages that fair trade provides.
10. Respect for the Environment
Mother Earth is considered in decision making. Sustainable raw materials and local materials are used where possible. Preferably production techniques are used to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.