Celebrating 30 Years of Fair Trade: Fairtrade Fortnight 2024
Fairtrade Fortnight 2024 - Be the Change
In 2024 Fairtrade Fortnight is being held from 9th-22nd September. Fairtrade Fortnight is typically held in February or March each year, however, in 2024, the event has been moved to September. This change is a special adjustment to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Fairtrade movement, allowing for a larger and more impactful celebration. This year’s campaign urges everyone to Be the Change by buying Fairtrade products and speaking up for fairer trade.
30 Years of Fairtrade
This year, Fair Trade Fortnight marks a significant milestone—the 30th anniversary of the Fair Trade movement. This global initiative, celebrated annually, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical consumption and the collective responsibility we share in supporting marginalized producers worldwide. As we commemorate three decades of progress, this year’s Fair Trade Fortnight is not only about reflecting on the journey so far, but also about looking ahead, particularly in the realm of Fair Trade fashion.
At Jenerous we’re working to make the future of fashion Fair, (Book recommendation - Wear Next: Fashioning the Future by Clare Press). When I feel frustrated because we’re not making as much progress as I’d like, I have to remind myself that when I was growing up, Fairtrade bananas were a new thing, but 30 years on and there are now Fairtrade bananas in every supermarket. (And many other food items) These things take time!
What is Fair Trade and Why Does It Matter?
Fair Trade is a global movement aimed at promoting fair and ethical trading practices, particularly in industries where workers and producers are often exploited. The core principle of Fair Trade is to ensure that producers—whether they are farmers, artisans, or factory workers—receive fair compensation for their work, work under safe conditions, and have the opportunity to improve their living standards. Fair Trade also emphasizes environmental sustainability, community development, and transparency in the supply chain.
Fair Trade matters for fashion because the fashion industry has long been associated with exploitative labour practices, particularly in developing countries where many garments are produced. Workers in these regions often face poor working conditions, low wages, and little to no job security. Fast fashion, characterized by its rapid production cycles and low costs, has exacerbated these issues by prioritizing profit over people.
By choosing Fair Trade fashion, consumers can help address these injustices. Fair Trade fashion brands adhere to strict standards that protect workers' rights, promote gender equality, and support environmental sustainability. This means that the clothes we wear can not only be stylish but also ethically made, contributing to a fairer global economy.
You can find out about the 10 Principles of Fair Trade here.
Fair Trade Fashion: A Growing Movement
As well as buying fairtrade food produce, one of the most significant areas of impact for the Fair Trade movement has been the fashion industry. Traditionally, fashion has been plagued by issues such as exploitative labour practices, environmental degradation, and a lack of transparency. Fast fashion, in particular, has been criticized for its unsustainable practices and the harsh conditions faced by garment workers in developing countries.
Fair Trade fashion emerged as a response to these challenges, offering an alternative that prioritizes the welfare of workers and the environment. Fair Trade fashion brands commit to paying fair wages, ensuring safe working conditions, and using environmentally sustainable materials. By supporting brands like Jenerous, consumers contribute to a more equitable and sustainable fashion industry.
Fair Trade Fortnight 2024: A Time for Reflection and Action
As we celebrate 30 years of Fair Trade, Fair Trade Fortnight 2024 provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work that still needs to be done. For the fashion industry, this means continuing to push for greater transparency, higher ethical standards, and a more profound commitment to sustainability. It’s about moving beyond niche markets and integrating Fair Trade principles into the mainstream fashion industry. This year’s Fortnight will feature events, discussions, and campaigns aimed at educating consumers about the impact of their fashion choices and encouraging them to support Fair Trade fashion brands.
Find out more at the Fairtrade foundation website Fairtrade Fortnight - Fairtrade
The Impact of Fair Trade Fashion
The rise of Fair Trade fashion has had a tangible impact on the lives of workers and communities around the world. By choosing Fair Trade clothing, consumers are helping to create a more equitable global economy. Fair Trade fashion supports artisans and garment workers by providing them with fair wages, access to education, and opportunities for social and economic development. This, in turn, helps to break the cycle of poverty and enables these communities to build a more sustainable future.
Fair Trade fashion is also closely linked with environmental sustainability. Many Fair Trade brands like Jenerous use organic or recycled materials, promote slow fashion principles, and strive to minimize their carbon footprint. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of Fair Trade extend beyond human welfare to include the health of our planet.
Find out more about our Fair Trade suppliers here.
How You Can Get Involved
Fair Trade Fortnight 2024 is a call to action for all of us. Here are some ways YOU can support Fair Trade fashion during the Fortnight and beyond:
Shop Fair Trade: Choose clothing and accessories from Fair Trade brands. Look for the Fair Trade label when shopping and explore brands that are committed to ethical practices.
Spread the Word: Use social media to raise awareness about Fair Trade fashion. Share stories, articles, and posts that highlight the importance of ethical fashion and encourage others to make informed choices.
Attend Events: Participate in events and activities during Fair Trade Fortnight. Many organizations host workshops, panel discussions, and fashion shows that focus on Fair Trade and sustainable fashion.
Educate Yourself: Learn more about the impact of the fashion industry on workers and the environment. Read up on Fair Trade principles and how they are applied in the fashion industry.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that promote ethical fashion. This can include lobbying for stronger labour rights, environmental protections, and transparency in the fashion supply chain.
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate 30 years of the Fair Trade movement, it’s clear that while much has been achieved, there is still work to be done. Fair Trade Fortnight 2024 is not just a celebration but a reminder of the ongoing need for change in the fashion industry and beyond. By continuing to support Fair Trade fashion, we can help ensure that the future of fashion is one that is fair, sustainable, and inclusive for all.
Let’s use this milestone as a springboard for even greater impact in the years to come. The future is fair—if we make it so.