Power dynamics between the global North and South: The case of fair trade policies (Student Project with Field Research)

ABOUT THE PROJECT

STAFF

PARTNERS

EVENTS

RESULTS

This project will explore power relations in the global trade, with particular emphasis on the fair trade system. Students will analyse whether and how fair trade policies reduce global inequalities between countries in the global North and South, or whether they perpetuate certain forms of economic dependence in a new form. In doing so, they will:

examine the role of certification bodies (e.g. the Fairtrade International system),
analyse the political representation of producers from Latin America and East Africa,
raziskovali vpliv standardov, potrošniških preferenc in okoljskih zahtev pridelavo oz izdelavo,
examine the importance of cooperatives as a democratic and sustainable economic practice.

Special emphasis will be placed on analysing global value chains and issues of representation, decision-making, and standard-setting in the fair trade system. Students will carry out the project according to the principles of:

problem-based and global learning,
interdisciplinary cooperation (political science, sociology, communication studies, European studies),
field research (interviews, document analysis, trade flow analysis),
preparation of research tasks and policy briefs.

They will develop analytical, research, advocacy, and communication skills, and formulate concrete proposals to improve sustainable and fairer trade practices. As part of the project, students will also address the environmental aspects of global trade, particularly carbon footprint reduction, sustainable production, and the transition to a circular economy. In doing so, they will contribute to understanding the link between fair trade, cooperatives, and sustainable development, and develop solutions to strengthen social and environmental responsibility. As part of the project, students will prepare:

fair trade policy analyses,
research tasks,
policy briefs,
awareness-raising posters and online articles,
proposals for incorporating content into the study process.

The project will thus link academic knowledge with real challenges in the working environment and contribute to the development of young people's skills for work in sustainable development, the social economy, and fair trade.