Ekklesia reports that consumers worldwide spent £1.1 billion on Fairtrade products last year, a 42% increase since 2006. Is this positive news and does it really make a difference or is it just a way for the affluent to soothe their consciences? A panel has been assembled to discuss these issues.
Does the Fairtrade initiative to put more money in the pockets of farmers in developing countries really make a difference when it comes to challenging prevailing international trading structures?
To mark Fairtrade Fortnight, JustShare, a coalition of churches and other development agencies seeking to engage with the City of London on issues of global and economic injustice, and Fairtrade educational charity Trading Visions, are hosting a special debate on the matter.
A panel of Fairtrade farmers, business and Church leaders will question whether Fairtrade is more a niche ethical sector, soothing the consciences of rich consumers and raising supermarket bank balances, than it is a real catalyst for change.
Read it all here.