Study finds Fair Trade farmers worse off than counterparts
A study conducted by researchers from the University of London found that agricultural workers employed by Fair Trade certified farms were actually worse off than their colleagues. Researchers studied small farms in Ethiopia and Uganda producing coffee, tea and other agricultural products for four years. They discovered that while Fair Trade premiums boosted incomes of farm owners, the benefits failed to trickle down to workers. In some cases, modern toilets were reserved only for senior managers and money allocated for schools went to build teacher's housing instead. The study also found that long-term relationships built around a commitment to quality produce ensured better returns and treatment of workers.