Alternative Globalization Addressing Peoples and Earth
Alternative Globalization Addressing Peoples and Earth
Alternative Globalization Addressing Peoples and Earth
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loving relationships that are based on self-giving <strong>and</strong> the sharing of bread<br />
for all. An “Agape economy of solidarity <strong>and</strong> sharing” is one where economic<br />
relations flow from the freely given gifts of God <strong>and</strong> are shared without<br />
reserve. This is the heart of a spirituality of transformation, promoting just<br />
relationships in consumption, production <strong>and</strong> trade.<br />
Trade must therefore be designed to serve end goals - the ethical, sustainable<br />
<strong>and</strong> equitable production, exchange <strong>and</strong> consumption of goods <strong>and</strong> services<br />
to meet the needs of all humankind <strong>and</strong> the earth. Seen in this perspective,<br />
international trade is one small aspect of trade; other aspects <strong>and</strong> levels of<br />
trade that are more meaningful for the world’s oppressed <strong>and</strong> exploited<br />
peoples must be recognized <strong>and</strong> given precedence.<br />
Fair trade is an important step in recognizing trade inequalities, but justice<br />
requires much more. We prefer to talk of just trade that is motivated by a<br />
sense of solidarity <strong>and</strong> care for the earth. This includes, but certainly goes<br />
beyond, a sense of compassion. Just trade that is based on the exchange of<br />
goods <strong>and</strong> services locally, nationally <strong>and</strong> internationally, <strong>and</strong> complements<br />
other life-sustaining economic activities, offers a more fertile approach to<br />
economic empowerment <strong>and</strong> justice. Just trade can substantively change<br />
people’s lives.<br />
For this to occur, the fundamental values <strong>and</strong> structures of the international<br />
market must change. Simple reform of the institutional arrangements of<br />
the market, without addressing the systemic issues, is not enough. The<br />
power of the churches’ spirituality <strong>and</strong> ethics of life for all provides the<br />
basis to confront the power enshrined in unjust trade relationships <strong>and</strong><br />
accumulated wealth.