The poorest people in developing countries are those most severely affected in times of global economic downturn. This is when we must continue to act as responsible citizens and do what we can to support them. Public interest in fair trade has never been higher and it is important to build on this awareness.
For some years now, Scotland has been working towards becoming a Fair Trade Nation, the next logical step to build on the successful Fairtrade Towns movement in the UK. Scots from all walks of life are being encouraged to get involved in this cutting edge, nationwide campaign which has received international attention.
The Scottish Government is committed to supporting Scotland's Fair Trade Nation campaign and in 2006, launched a set of joint criteria with the Welsh Assembly Government to help make this a reality.
We provide core funding to the Scottish Fair Trade Forum which is the driving force behind the Fair Trade Nation campaign. Established in January 2007 by a group of Scottish Fair Trade campaigners, Scottish-based non-governmental organisations and the then Scottish Executive, the Forum is an independent body with membership open to any individual or organisation interested in promoting fair trade in Scotland.
In the past two years, there have been many highlights, most notably:
- the Forum holding two well attended Annual General Meetings to elect Board members;
- forming a partnership with the National Farming Union (Scotland) to promote both local produce and Fairtrade products which are not available in this country;
- successfully holding two Small Grant Funding rounds, awarding money to a variety of organisations across Scotland to help them promote fair trade in their local areas; and
- the Scottish Government awarding additional funding to the Forum in 2008/09 to assist with increased marketing and awareness building around Fairtrade Fortnight.
Achieving Fair Trade Nation status will not happen overnight but a lot of progress has already been made. However, we need everybody to get involved and do their bit to raise awareness.
More information can be found on the Scottish Fair Trade Forum's website.