Fairtrade organized a workshop focused on enhancing producers’ understanding of essential aspects related to Human Rights and Environment Due Diligence (HREDD). The session focused on clarifying the connections between Fairtrade Standards and HREDD, elucidating Fairtrade’s plans and initiatives in the North America and Pacific region (NAPP). A key objective was to help participants recognize and validate risks within India’s Hired Labour sector. This initiative aims to ensure that producers comprehend the significance of HREDD and its alignment with Fairtrade principles. This enables them to actively contribute to risk assessment within the Hired Labour sector, aligning with Fairtrade’s commitment to ethical and sustainable production practices. This workshop was attended by 36 participants comprising of 18 management representees and 18 workers.
The workshop encompassed a structured agenda designed to demystify Human Rights and Environment Due Diligence (HREDD) for participants. The session commenced with an introduction to HREDD’s steps and approach, followed by a comprehensive exploration of the synergy between Fairtrade Standards and HREDD. Delving into labour conditions and the general Tea standard, participants gained a conceptual understanding of both Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence.
“The Workshop was very informative, it was great opportunity to learn from workers from south India, as well express our experience. HREDD is very important topic for keeping the Darjeeling tea industry going.” – Birendra Waiba, Chamong Tee Exports Pvt. Ltd. (Chamong Tea Group).
The workshop transitioned into practical elements by introducing the identification of risks and existing mitigation plans. Producers took the stage with presentations, adding a valuable real-world perspective to the theoretical framework. Recap and suggestion sessions, coupled with individual planning for strategic intervention, were integral components. The workshop concluded with a risk validation session involving management and workers separately, fostering an open session for the next steps and closure. This well-structured approach blended input sessions and participant discussions, facilitating a gradual immersion into the intricacies of HREDD
Participants embraced the understanding that Human Rights and Environment Due Diligence (HREDD) as it provides producers with essential leverage to identify and address risks to human and environmental well-being inherent in their daily estate activities and business operations. The structured, step-by-step process ensures a systematic approach to addressing concerns while solidifying their commitments to people and the environment. Hence, the workshop instilled confidence among participants, assuring them that the process equips them as businesses to showcase and communicate the positive impacts of their practices. Armed with newfound knowledge, participants intend to apply the workshop’s insights within their individual companies, planning for continued engagement and seeking necessary assistance from Fairtrade NAPP.
“It was my first opportunity to participate in such a workshop, even the place for workshop was first time, I learnt a lot, and would go back and share the learnings with co-workers in my estate. Thanks to NAPP, for providing me this opportunity.” – Bipul Tanti, Tonganaga on Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd.
