Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (BFTA) is a non-profit NGO established in 2009. It works to spread the fair trade message in Palestine and links Palestinian producers to global fair trade markets.
In 2015, BFTA became the first guaranteed member of World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) in the Middle East. WFTO is the largest global network advocating Fair Trade principles.
OUR MISSION
BFTA‘s mission to empower the most vulnerable producers in Palestine, support them to become active agents in their own livelihoods, and develop their social rights and their communities.
OUR GOALS
BFTA aims to develop the local economy by creating more opportunities to the most marginalized producers, creating sustainable livelihoods. By spreading the message of fair trade, BFTA aims to restore the dignity of the most marginalized groups in the Palestinian society and to improve their lives. BFTA supports Palestinian women, by increasing their market share in the domestic and global markets, increasing their incomes, their decision making role at home and in the community, and enhancing their social standing. BFTA targets youth with its fair trade advocacy in the hope of creating more sustainable and equitable business models and a better working environment for the future. Through its dedication to solidify the fair trade principles in Palestine, BFTA works to contribute to a global trade structure of equality and justice. WHAT WE DO
While working with producers specializing in olive wood, embroidery, mother of pearl, olive oil soap, felt wool, and recycled products, BFTA promotes and celebrates the Palestinian culture and traditions. Through our mission of fair trade, we cherish these ancient crafts as we share their local stories with the world. BFTA became an umbrella of major support for: 53 family-owned olive wood workshops, ceramics and blown glass factories, 50 women’s cooperatives and groups working with embroidery, recycled glass, basket weaving and jewelry making, and 5 dis-abled groups making felt wool products and recycled cards. BFTA strategically reached new markets and doubled sales in the past few years, which has helped to lift hundreds of people out of poverty. By fostering the sustainable development of these communities, BFTA aims to contribute to a global trade structure that benefits marginalized groups.