Empowering Small Producers: Unveiling the Potential of HREDD in Odisha with Support from Fairtrade Finland

In a world increasingly driven by ethical practices and sustainability, the introductory workshop on Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) held in Bhawanipatnam, Odisha, marked a pivotal moment for small-scale producers. Organized under the aegis of Fairtrade NAPP’s mission to build sustainable communities and funded by Fairtrade Finland, this two-day event focused on equipping participants with knowledge and tools to align their operations with global standards.

The workshop brought together ten participants, including small cotton producers and board members of Chetna Organics Agricultural Producers Limited. Through interactive sessions, group activities, and a compelling case study, the participants delved into the core principles of HREDD. The agenda was clear—to foster an understanding of human rights and environmental sustainability within the framework of Fairtrade practices.

The discussions emphasized the operational implications of HREDD, highlighting its role in meeting not only global regulatory demands but also Fairtrade’s ethical commitments. Facilitators encouraged participants to share their experiences and challenges, creating a collaborative space that bridged theoretical concepts with practical realities.

One of the highlights of the workshop was a hands-on case study exercise. This activity allowed participants to explore how HREDD principles could be integrated into their supply chains, ensuring compliance while fostering sustainability. The engagement was palpable, as participants examined their organizational contexts and sought to align them with HREDD standards.

By the end of the session, there was a noticeable shift in perspectives. Participants recognized that incorporating HREDD principles isn’t merely about meeting regulations; it’s about enhancing the integrity and marketability of their products in a competitive global arena. Their enthusiasm for adopting these practices was a testament to the workshop’s success.

As the workshop concluded, it was evident that the participants had gained more than just insights—they had acquired a vision for sustainability. With the European Union’s HREDD regulations coming into play, the knowledge shared during the workshop equipped them to navigate the complexities of compliance.

Looking ahead, participants voiced their interest in further training sessions, particularly on HREDD tools and analysis formats. This enthusiasm underscores the need for continued engagement, not just as a response to regulatory requirements but as a proactive step towards sustainability and ethical business practices.

Despite its success, the workshop highlighted the challenges small producers face, such as interpreting the scope of HREDD and its 13 factors within diverse operational contexts. However, these challenges also present opportunities—platforms like this workshop enable producers to seek clarity, share insights, and build capacity collaboratively.

Participants expressed their appreciation for the workshop’s relevance and impact:

• “The HREDD training was engaging and provided valuable insights into various rights, making a significant impact on our work and life,” said Himanchu Padhan, a member of COAPCL.
• “This was my first training on HREDD, and I gained substantial knowledge about the responsibilities of states, companies, and businesses. I look forward to more sessions,” shared Dingar Patel, also from COAPCL.
• “The session on women’s rights and HREDD was insightful and informative. I gained a deeper understanding of these topics,” added Sangita Sahu.

The Odisha workshop was more than an event—it was a step towards empowering small producers with the tools they need to thrive in a sustainable and ethical marketplace. As Fairtrade NAPP continues its mission, such initiatives lay the groundwork for resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive producer organizations. Through knowledge-sharing and collaboration, the journey towards a fairer future gains’ momentum.