Generation Wonder - Buy Fair Trade

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Generation Wonder Web Site > What Matters to Us > Buy Fair Trade > We value Fair Trade

When a consumer buys a product recognised as Fairtrade by WFTO (World Fair Trade Organisation, formally known as IFAT) or regional Fairtrade body, the organisation that produces it has satisfied many criteria that their goods are produced in a manner whereby neither the worker or the environment is exploited in their manufacture. At times, Fairtrade items may seem more expensive than like items but that is a direct reflection of the stance against monopoly producers or big corporates who control industries, suppliers and ultimately price and profits. By buying Fairtrade we share our consumer power with small producers who seek the opportunity to make a sustainable livelihood for themselves and their families, just like us.

Definition of Fair Trade, by WFTO (World Fair Trade Organisation)
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. Fair Trade is more than just trading it: it proves that greater justice in world trade is possible. It highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people first.

Fair Trade standards include:
- creating opportunities for marginalised producers, whether they be small family run businesses or co-ops, creating economic self-sufficiency
- transparency and accountability to its stakeholders. There are ways for employees, members and producers to participate in the decision-making processes.
- trading partnerships are built long term. Buyers and suppliers consult on trading terms and respect terms of agreement. Often, pre-payment can be arranged to ensure raw materials are available for production to start.
- A fair price is paid for good produced. Where a pricing structure exists, as in commodities, this is used as the minimum. Fair pay means provision of socially acceptable remuneration (in the local context) considered by producers themselves to be fair, and takes into consideration the provision for equal pay for equal work by women and men.
- The organisation ensures there is no forced labour in its workforce and/or members or homeworkers. The organisation must adhere to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and national / local law on the employment of children.
- The organisation cannot discriminate in the hiring, pay, training, promotion, termination, or retirement based on race, gender, caste, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, union membership, political affiliation, HIV/AIDS status or age.
- a healthy and safe environment must be maintained for workers, based on the national and local laws and ILO convention as a minimum standard.
- The organisation invests in capacity building to promote that producers are able to market and manage their businesses in a global market place.
- The organisation promotes Fair Trade using honest advertising and marketing.
- Buyers and importers give priority to buying products made from local raw materials that originate from sustainable sources. Fair Trade agricultural commodity producers minimise their environmental impact by using organic or low pesticide production methods where possible. Recycled or easily biodegradable packaging is used where possible.

By bringing Fair Trade products to the children, Generation Wonder hopes to introduce them to the wonder of things made in far away places, by neighbours who live on the other side of the world. We hope the children will understand that their enjoyment from their special new gift gives another family somewhere hope and pride and opportunity.