European and international networking
Selling fairly traded quality products is not sufficient to really change the situation of Southern producers marginalized on the world market. Lobbying and political advocacy work, campaigning and a comprehensive cooperation of the Fair Trade organizations are important components of our work.
Therefore, GEPA is a member of different networks both at European and international level, with the common aim to promote Fair Trade and thus the interests of the trading partners.
FLO (Fair Labelling Organizations international)
WFTO (World Fair Trade Organization)
EFTA (European Fair Trade Association)
These networks have developed a common and internationally recognized definition of “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 social rights of, marginalized producers and workers – especially in the South.
Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.”
Fair trade organizations overview:
