Aid to Artisans

Commitment to Responsible Trade

To support trade with concern for the social, economic and environmental well-being of marginalized producers in developing countries. This means equitable commercial terms, fair wages and fair prices. Unfair trade structures, mechanisms, practices and attitudes and efforts to maximize profit at the producer's expense will be identified and avoided. Responsible Trade is seen as a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development through market access.

Transparency

To openly share information, business practices, marketing and development program plans on a regular basis. This openness is tempered with respect to sensitive commercial or political information.

Ethical Issues

To reflect in our structures a commitment to justice, fair employment, public accountability and progressive work practices. To aim for adequate income for workers to meet their basic needs, including health care, education and the capacity to save.

Working Conditions

To support a safe working environment that satisfies at a minimum all local statutory regulations. To provide the opportunity for all individuals to grow and reach their potential. To ensure that work is carried out under humane working conditions, using appropriate materials and technologies, while following good production and work practices. To train producers in the latest health and safety measures and to help them obtain safety protection equipment, if necessary.

Equal Employment Opportunities

To oppose discrimination and ensure equality of employment opportunities for both men and women who suffer from the exploitation of their labor and the effects of poverty and racial, cultural or gender bias.

Concern for People

To promote development which improves the quality of life and which is sustainable for and responsible to both people and the natural world. There will be no exploitation of child labor. Trading activities should not violate indigenous peoples' claims on land or any resources of vital importance to their way of life.

Concern for the Environment

To encourage the trading of goods which apply responsible and sustainable methods of production. To design artisan products and artisan service programs for efficiency, thereby reducing the ecological impact.

Cultural Identity

To support the preservation of cultural integrity and the unique cultural traditions and identity of an artisan community.

Collaborative Design

To encourage production and development of products that fit within the traditional skills, cultural heritage and natural resources of a community through a process of collaborative design. To promote new applications of traditional skills and to assist artisans in understanding market needs.

Education and Advocacy

To support campaigns or campaign for national and international policies that will improve the living conditions of the poor in developing countries and promote eco-friendly trade practices. To advocate for handcrafts as a vital, irreplaceable source of livelihood for millions of individuals and their families that mitigates rural-to-urban migration and contributes to cultural and social identity and cohesion. To increase public and corporate consciousness of responsible trade. To uplift the perception of handmade and the skills and dignity of artisans.