The "Gender Equity Awareness Training in Fair-Trade Artisan Groups" project aims to promote gender equality and safe workplaces that reflect fair-trade principles among artisan groups in Bangladesh. The project has two objectives: to increase the capacity of ECOTA and member organizations' middle management to reduce gender-based discrimination in the workplace, and to promote the rights and agency of artisans by reducing gender-based violence and discrimination in the workplace. The project targets six fair trade enterprises and their artisans, impacting over 900 artisans and mid-level managers, with a focus on women artisans. The project has made significant progress in achieving its objectives, providing training and capacity-building support to mid-management and artisans, developing a replicable training module, and increasing gender equity awareness. The project team is committed to continuing the project activities to achieve its objectives and empower women artisans by raising their awareness of their rights and building their capacity to take leadership roles.
Handicrafts have emerged as an important source of income for women and their families in many regions of the world, including Bangladesh. Fair Trade has become a crucial factor in improving the well-being of producers, particularly those in the handicrafts industry. As more organizations show interest in selling and purchasing Fair Trade products, significant changes are occurring in the demand side of the trade, providing opportunities for handicraft makers to improve their livelihoods and have their voices heard. Fair Trade has proven to be an effective mechanism for addressing unethical trading practices that exploit producers.
The implementation of the 10 Fair Trade Principles, which include fair pricing and wages, has been essential in empowering producers, enabling them to receive just compensation for their work. The growth of handicrafts makers every year provides an opportunity to increase income and job opportunities for producers, especially women.
In Bangladesh, where the handicrafts industry is rapidly growing, Fair Trade can help support its continued expansion while ensuring that producers are treated fairly and have access to secure livelihoods. By implementing the Fair Trade Principles, Bangladesh can help create a more enabling environment for producers and enhance the well-being of those who rely on handicrafts for their income.
The "Gender Equity Awareness Training in Fair-Trade Artisan Groups" project aims to promote gender equality and safe workplaces that reflect fair-trade principles among artisan groups. The project is funded by People Tree Foundation and Christian Aid UK, with technical support from Christian Aid Bangladesh. The implementing agency is Development Wheel (DEW).
