we believe young people are key actors to rethink our system and accelerate the paradigm shift towards more sustainable trading and consumption patterns.
DISCOVER #BitesizedChange: Youth Voices for Sustainable Food.
Join us on this journey led by Young Fair Trade Advocates as we explore how the youth is driving positive change in the EU's food systems and also what needs to change ahead of the 2024 European Elections.
Young Fair Trade Advocates
Young Fair Trade Advocates
WHO We are
The YFTAs represent a diverse group of young individuals aged 18 to 30 within the European Union, united by the common goal of fostering a global, fair, and ecological transition.
Environmental impacts of international trade and food systems, rising inequalities at global level, human rights abuses and extreme poverty along our supply chains, adverse impacts of fast fashion, trade agreements, unsustainable consumerism or intensive farming. These are all topics that are at the frontline of citizens’ attention and media scrutiny within the European Union.
our work
the change we need to see
We are alarmed by the pressing need to reform the current socio-economic system which endangers billions of lives, and we aspire to reverse the damage caused by previous generations.
our ambition
Our ambition is to create a world driven not solely by profit but one that respects diversity, uplifts marginalised communities, and fully comprehends the imminent climate challenges.
our STRENGTH
For us, it's evident that transitioning to a more environmentally and socially friendly system must involve acknowledging the stark social and economic disparities between different parts of the globe. Our strength lies in the meaningful connections we've cultivated with young artisans and producers in the Global South, whose invaluable insights contribute significantly to our work.
a sustainable future
We firmly believe that decisions made within the EU have a global resonance and advocate for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Enabling global, fair, and ecological transition
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The YFTAs stress the necessity of embedding principles like the 'polluter pays,' 'common but differentiated responsibility,' and the 'precautionary principle' into trade agreements in a binding manner. They also emphasise the importance of maintaining ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the EU and partner countries to facilitate the transition to agroecological practices. This collaborative approach aims to address environmental challenges effectively while ensuring support for non-EU countries in meeting higher sustainability standards.
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The Young Fair Trade Advocates are calling on the European Union (EU) to implement policies for fair, accessible, and sustainable food systems that prioritize human rights and environmental protection. They emphasise the need for climate change mitigation, agroecological practices like agroforestry, and a global perspective in policymaking. Additionally, they urge EU policies to contribute positively to sustainable development in partner countries without undermining their food sovereignty. Currently, they are working on a social media campaign that will highlight the need for sustainable food systems globally interviewing key stakeholders.
