Building Equitable and Sustainable Trading Partnerships: Will fair trade evolve to be the status quo instead of just a more equitable form of trade?

Saturday, 6 June, 2009

15:30 – 16:45

“We don’t want aid, we want trade” Malawi Minister of Trade

In today’s globalised world the lives of people in rich and poor countries are intertwined on many levels, with international trade being one of the strongest ties.  This powerful link has the potential to act as a catalyst for economic growth as well as the reduction of poverty, yet millions of the world’s poorest people are left behind.  Clearly, more emphasis needs to be put on the possibility of poor nations trading their way out of debt and poverty.  With the proper tools and conditions for fair trading, they too will be able to share the benefits of a global market.  Fair trade, unlike charity aid, is what levels the playing field and leads to sustainable economic growth and development.

Confirmed Panelists

Osman Atac – Chief of Trade Support Institution Strengthening , International Trade Center

Nick Francis – Director at Speak-it.org

Hal Jones – President and CEO of Global Hope Network International

Hilary Parsons – Public Affairs Manager, Nestle SA

Moderator

Xavier Debrun – University of Geneva, IOMBA Program

Panel Coordinator

Emoke Ficz - University of Geneva, IOMBA 2009

To contact the panel coordinators, please e-mail: panels@gfsc.ch