College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Theses and Dissertations

Graduation Date

6-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Department/Program Conferring Degree

International Studies

Keywords

fairtrade, cotton, development, livelihoods, producers/farmers

Abstract

This thesis determines if Fairtrade cotton can improve the livelihoods of cotton farmers in India. Interviews with Fairtrade cotton farmers and local staff members of a Fairtrade cotton organization provide insightful data on Fairtrade cotton. Results reveal that Fairtrade cotton contributes to the social, socioeconomic, and environmental development of cotton producers but not without limitations. Based on the theoretical framework that agricultural market expansion promotes farmers’ development, this study determines if Fairtrade cotton is a viable strategy for increasing market access for cotton farmers in India.

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