Fairtrade strives for decent livelihoods
In a world where farmers are often not able to cover basic needs like housing and food with their earnings - despite growing the crops that drive supply chains worth billions on the global market – being able to earn a living income or living wage is an urgent matter to address.
Fairtrade is actively working to support farmers and workers achieve incomes that enable them to live dignified lives—a fundamental right endorsed by the United Nations for seven decades.
However, despite this recognition, countless individuals in producing countries continue to struggle with incomes that barely cover the costs of essential necessities.
How Fairtrade supports decent livelihoods
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Strong standards
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Fairer pricing
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Fairtrade Premium investments
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Improving farm efficiency
"For the farmers of today and tomorrow one thing is blatantly clear: A stable, high-enough price is a precondition for improving their livelihoods in a sustainable manner."
Carla Veldhuyzen van Zanten
Senior Advisor Sustainable Livelihoods at Fairtrade International
What does it cost to enable sustainable livelihoods?
Living income and living wages are integral components of Fairtrade's strategy. We use a holistic price discovery model for establishing reference prices for living incomes and living wages. Our online tool is designed to help companies find out what prices they need to pay to enable living incomes and living wages in their supply chains.
Explore the reference price tool
Decent work and a decent living – it’s not too much to ask, right?
The ability to earn a decent living offers the next generation of farmers and workers a sustainable future. It will require everyone playing their part – including shoppers choosing to stand up for farmer and worker livelihoods.