| Rotterdam, October 2009 --- On 4 November, the third Max Havelaar lecture will take place at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University. This year’s motto is ‘Chains for Change’. Speakers with a range of perspectives will give their vision and ambitions about the way that supply chains can change the world. It is with great pleasure that we invite you to participate. |
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| Trade is an important driver in poverty alleviation and empowerment in developing countries. The slogan ‘ Trade. Not aid’ regards to the millions of small producers in developing countries who have something to offer, but have been economically disadvantaged or marginalised by the conventional trading system. Fair access to markets under better trade conditions would help them to overcome barriers to development. This concept, globally known as Fairtrade. Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives. |
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| Fairtrade is a classic example of sustainable chain management. Lots of other sustainable initiatives originated after its introduction in the Netherlands in 1988. Sustainable chain management, and especially Fairtrade, proved to be an effective way in which companies can make a big contribution to global sustainability. But it’s not easy. What choices does a multinational have? What are the most effective methods in sustainable chain management? What are current trends? What are opportunities in sustainable chain management? Is there a limit in responsibilities for multinationals? What are the roles of government, NGOs, and science? |
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| The third Max Havelaar lecture will be hosted by Prof.dr. Rob van Tulder, Professor of Business-Society Management at RSM. Introductions will be given by: ISS, Triodos Bank, and Max Havelaar Foundation. Speakers will be Gary Gereffi, Professor of Sociology and Director of the Markets and Management Studies Program at Duke University; Hans van Bochove, Director Public Affairs, Communications and CSR at Starbucks Coffee Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA); Jack van Ham, CEO ICCO and Bert Koenders, Dutch Minister for Development Cooperation. |
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| To read the full programme and to register, or learn more about previous lectures, go to |
| www.maxhavelaarlecture.org |
