Monday 5th December 2005
The international community is in its strongest position yet to develop fair trade across the globe, says the head of Oxfam’s Make Trade Fair campaign.
But, says Pushpanath, people need to keep the pressure on their governments: ‘I work across the world and I’ve seen more than nine million people in less than three years mobilise to support efforts to make trade fair. More than ever before,’ he says; ‘But unless the rich countries around the table at the World Trade Organisation meeting in Hong Kong this month revise their offers the chances of a global trade deal to benefit poor countries are seriously off-track.’
Oxfam believes claims of big cuts in subsidies are seriously overstated by the EU and US and that, under current proposals, very little will change in reality and developing countries will continue to be harmed by unfair competition.
Pushpanath urges: ‘What is important is that we do not lose hope. Trade has such a power. If we increase international trade by one per cent – and this increase is not characterised by rigged rules or double standards – it has the power to generate enough income to lift 128 million people out of poverty. We need to keep the pressure on.’
He adds: ‘Church communities have a part to play. Faith can move mountains.
Congregations can sign the Make Trade Fair petition which is part of the trade justice movement, or ‘Vote for Trade Justice’ by contacting Christian Aid on (Ox) 246818 or Tearfund on (01235) 550467 to receive vote cards. Campaigners hope to have one million signatures by the end of the year.