Strengthening of social labels

Social standards are based on conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), such as the abolition of child labour and of forced and compulsory labour, occupational safety and health, freedom of association, the right to organise and participate in collective bargaining, fair wages, maximum permissible working hours and non-discrimination in the workplace. The discussion on social standards is substantially influenced by the working conditions in textile and sports goods factories producing globally marketed brands. Working conditions in these factories are a matter of grave concern. Most governments do not ensure the enforcement of labour legislation, and thus pave the way for abuse.

Farmers' families and plantation workers in the so-called developing countries also live under the constant pressure of the world market, fluctuating prices and exploitative local intermediaries. The consequences range from indebtedness via unemployment to impoverishment. There are usually very few alternatives to existing production, and these frequently involve the cultivation of drugs, prostitution, child labour or migration to the slum areas of the major cities. That is why fair trade is a necessity. Its main principles are based on compliance with the social standards. Social labels enable the customers to make a more informed choice, and to contribute towards improving conditions for the producers. For many small producers and small farmers in disadvantaged countries, fair trade represents a way out of a dead-end situation.

Through our involvement, we aim to promote the marketing of fair-trade products internationally. Fastenopfer's support of fair-trade networks in the respective countries, and the marketing of the products in local markets, forms part of our project and programme work.