is fair trade a good way to end poverty in third world countries?

Answer 1

Yes, it's a start. I think a better way is to cancel third world debt. I know that it's a lot of money and not something that people are prepared to write off, but think about it practically. There is no way that countries like Zimbabwe, Ethiopia or Tanzania will EVER be able to repay those debts, so what's the point in keeping those astronomical I.O.U's?

Answer 2

Its a good way to start the end of poverty in third world countries but there is still a lot of work to do and more then buying fair trade goods.

Answer 3

Yes its a start but it certainly wouldn't end poverty these countries. We need to cancel world debt as well.
Fair trade only works if people buy the products and at the moment iam kinda into buying british. That said i shop often at the co'op (uk peeps only) so i do get lots of fair trade stuff as well

Answer 4

No I don't think it is.

I know it benefits a few farmers, but what about the rest and you can bet the people organising the brand name get a fair proportion of profits for their assistance.

I know that sounds cynical, but we are all human after all.

A better way of helping is to get big companies to give a fair price to all farmers for their produce. That way all the farmers benefit and we are all helping. I wouldn't mind paying a bit extra if I knew the farmers were getting the benefit and I was getting a good end product.

Debt should also be wiped out to allow these countries to help their people develop. However it should be cancelled with conditions i.e. you use the money you would pay to your debt to build 100 schools instead or provide irrigation etc.

Answer 5

The whole concept is to be applauded, however the likely hood that it will go someways to ending povety is a bit of day dream I fear. Many involved in this scheme are already corrupt and if those that are not already by the nature of the beast GREED they will become so. Those in government in these third world countries have their palms crossed with gold become rich in the process.

And the poverty still goes on. It will never end not unless the powers to be want it to end...you see too much power to the people for their liking..

Answer 6

The fair trade goods has to be a good option but what worries me is the greedy supermarkets are often selling the goods quite a bit dearer but a fair trade wage in third world countries are a lot lower than in other countries. Win Win Win for supermarkets I think.

Answer 7

It's cute but it is not on a scale large enough to help most poor people. It is equivalent to the co-op movement in the developed countries: a nice thing that helps small villages and farmers in remote regions, but has no impact in large population centres. To cure poverty in the third world, it will require three things: better government policies that uphold the law and help people own things, massive increase in corporate presence and investment, support for all entrepreneurs.

Answer 8

It is a start at least. But loads need to be done still and globalisation isn't helping. When companies aren't prepared to pay decent wages and instead move their production to 3rd world countries so that they can dictate the rules, it makes fair trade look like such a small effort. On the other hand, by choosing fair trade products, you're voicing your opinion with you vallet, the only language corporations seem to understand.

Answer 9

I would think that the people doing the work are just greatfull of a secure income. It doesn't really matter if their governments are taking a big chunk of the income and trying to live the high life. All that really matters is that their ordinary people are getting fed.

Anyway it's quite comical to see General WhatEver walking around in London, in his own country he's known and can command a path through crowds, in London no one knows who he is, so he's just another skittle between them and the sandwich bar down the road.

Who would have thought fair trade could be the source of entertainment.

Answer 10

Well I guess it helps- talking of fair trade, try the fair trade milk chocolate from the Co-op- yummy and you can feel satisfied that your helping a little too, all round goodness!