When you think of the countries of Rwanda, Nepal, and Colombia – let’s be honest – you probably don’t think commercial retail success, do you?
With some help from leading ethical fashion and eco-clothing retailers like Adili, things are beginning to change for the better, at least for the textile industry.
These three countries represent the forefront of the Fairtrade movement, a movement which is especially prevalent in clothing manufacturing. For those not fully aware with the ‘Fairtrade’ movement, in a nutshell Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. Fairtrade is a movement which addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.
With the power of Fairtrade ethical standards behind them, Rwanda, Nepal and Colombia are leading the Third World charge into mainstream textile markets. Forward thinking clothing manufacturers are discovering the benefits of relocating to areas not traditionally associated with mass clothing production.
South America, and Colombia in particular, is an area of the world rich in natural resources and vibrant culture, however, decades of instability and lack of foreign investment means it’s only now starting to fulfill its potential for trade and development.
Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It also has some of the most kind-natured people you could find anywhere. Unfortunately, it also lays claim to one of the world’s most contentious and unstable political structures on earth. As you might expect, this has been a major setback of all areas of Nepalese society, especially commerce. 31% of the population lives below the poverty line and unemployment rate sits at almost 50%. Again, the Fairtrade movement is beginning to take a firm hold here and conditions are beginning to improve.
Rwanda is a country known more for civil war than clothing manufacturing. Adili is one company looking into and betting on the future of this very promising country. Despite still being very poor, Rwanda is emerging as a vibrant African success story. It’s had a tragically troubled past but is now moving ahead, with many Rwandans striving to build a sustainable future for themselves.
Everyone deserves to be treated well at work. But for the 40 million plus workers in the global garment industry, excessively long hours, wages that are too low to live on, harassment, abuse and discrimination are all too common. The causes are complex but there’s no doubt that our insatiable desire for ever cheaper, ever changing fast fashion plays a huge part.
As you choose you next outfit, keep in mind that in recent years a number of High Street clothing brands have started making clothes the ethical way. Best of all these clothes are superb, stylish pieces that make you look good and feel great. Isn’t that what fashion should be about? Look for ethical branding ‘Fairtrade’ standards whenever possible.
By purchasing fairly traded products you’re supporting the movement.
The people of Columbia, Nepal, Rwanda and other developing nations thank you in advance.
SOURCE: AscensionOnline.com
