SERRV ArtisanWork supports small-scale artisans around the world and the organizations that work with them. We collaborate with organizations that are committed to Fair Trade and the guiding principles and fundamental values that drive it. SERRV is a member of the World Fair Trade Organization (formerly IFAT) and a founding member of the Fair Trade Federation. Read on to learn more about Fair Trade.
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 organizations have a clear commitment to Fair Trade as the core principal of their mission. They, backed by consumers, are engaged actively in supporting producers and raising awareness. They advocate for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade, through active campaigns or by creating, in practice, a viable trade alternative through Fair Trade.
Fair Trade is about more than just paying a fair wage. It also means deliberately working with marginalized producers and workers to help them move toward economic self-sufficiency. It means building trading partnerships that are based on mutual respect, as well as upholding health, safety, and environmental standards and ensuring that producers' and workers' voices are included in decisions that affect them. Most importantly, it means creating sustainable and positive change by seeking to achieve greater equity in international trade.
The World Fair Trade Organization has established the following 10 principles that Fair Trade organizations use to guide their day-to-day work:
For more information about Fair Trade, visit these organizations that are active in building and promoting fair trade around the world:
International Networks:
World Fair Trade Organization (formerly IFAT)
Fair Trade Labeling Organization
Regional Networks
COFTA: Africa
IFAT-LA: Latin America
Asia Fair Trade Forum - Asia
EFTA - European Fair Trade Association - Europe
Fair Trade Federation - North America
United Students for Fair Trade - North America
Fair Trade Resource Network - North America
Green America Guide to Fair Trade - North America
Faith-based Organizations
Catholic Relief Services Fair Trade Program
Lutheran World Relief Fair Trade
To continue learning about Fair Trade, here are some additional resources:
1. Recommended Reading:
Fair Trade Institute - maintains an archive of documents, academic research and other publications about Fair Trade
Fair Trade Resource Network Reading List
Fair Trade Federation Reading List
World Fair Trade Organization Studies and Further Reading
2. Fair Trade Films
Fair Trade Resource Network Fair Trade Film List
There are many ways you can be involved in Fair Trade and building a more sustainable, just world. For artisan organizations, we suggest contacting a fair trade network close to you to find out how to become involved. There are many national and regional Fair Trade networks. Please check out the WFTO Members Lists to find a Fair Trade organization or national network close to you.
For individuals interested in taking action, here are a few ideas on how to get involved in Fair Trade:
Participate in World Fair Trade Day
Educate others about Fair Trade
Purchase Fair Trade Products
Make your city a Fair Trade Town
Organize a Fair Trade Fundraiser
Bring Fair Trade into your school, church, workplace, city, sports team
Support groups campaigning on trade justice issues