What impacts do Fairtrade have on working conditions? - A study of coffee producers’ experiences in Nicaragua

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore how coffee producers experience the impacts that Fairtrade has on their working conditions based on the case-study of CECOCAFEN in Nicaragua. To analyze the results from this field study social capital has been used as theory. Social capital has shown to be a contributing factor to the enhancements in the producers working conditions. Networks are the base in social capital as they facilitate cooperation for mutual benefits. The value lies in that the network together can be able to achieve things that individuals could not create by themselves. The reason why networks and cooperation can accomplish improvements together is the shared norms, values and expectations they have. This is a qualitative study based on 14 interviews with members of the cooperative CECOCAFEN, to capture their experiences of changed working conditions since they became Fairtrade-certified. The interviews were made in three villages and the interviewees were of varied ages and had different positions in the organization. During the interviews observations of the interviewees were made and field-notes were taken. When the interviews and observations were compiled the coffee producers’ answers could be divided into four categories: economy; education; organization; and self-esteem, pride and commitment. The results show that through being organized in Fairtrade cooperatives the members have access to a stronger social capital. Cooperation between the members creates advantages that would not be possible otherwise. Through being Fairtrade-certified they have been able to reach out to a new market and get a more stable economy. With improved economic resources they have the possibility to invest in education. The schools have reached a higher standard and the members in CECOCAFEN have also learnt to educate each other. The greater amount of social capital has also resulted in personal development such as pride and self-esteem.