Fairtrade Fortnight 2024 takes place 9 September – 22 September, celebrating all things Fairtrade. This year the fortnight marks 30 years of the Fairtrade movement in the UK. And did you know that Scotland is a ‘Fair Trade Nation’? It was the second nation in the world (after Wales) to be awarded such recognition for the work undertaken here for change in global trade. Being a Fair Trade Nation gives us a platform and we need to use it. A platform from which to cry out for the coffee growers in Rwanda, rice farmers in Malawi and textile workers in India and China. In celebrating what has been achieved, let’s not lose sight of how far we still have to go.
Wondering what Fair Trade really means in 2024? It means that Workers are treated fairly, Producers are paid a fair wage, Sustainable Practices are used, and the Environment is protected.
The 10 principles of Fairtrade:
The following is from the International Fair Trade Charter:
‘Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade.
It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers – especially in the South.
Fair Trade organisations, backed by consumers, are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.’
Every little action helps. Whether that be buying Fairtrade teabags with your regular supermarket shop, or visiting The One World Shop online or at Edinburgh’s West End, to explore their range of ethical products. Or asking where bags, jewellery and clothes are made. Make an informed decision and support those who need us most.