​In December 2017 the EU Cities for Fair and Ethical Trade Award was launched. This new initiative of the European Commission was also requested by the European Committee of the Regions in its opinion on local and regional support for Fair Trade in Europe (rapporteur: Barbara Duden, DE/PES) https://kiklos.cor.europa.eu/opinion/23215 

The award aims to recognise cities’ achievements and positive impact in the areas of social, economic and environmental sustainability in international trade. The Award is part of EU’s efforts to raise awareness about how purchasing decisions of EU consumers can affect the environment and livelihoods of people in other countries – and the role that cities and local authorities have to play in making sure those decisions are well-informed.

The Award primarily covers trade between EU cities and extra-EU countries as well as EU consumer demand for fair and ethically produced products. Highlighting the interconnectedness of the EU with the rest of the world is an important part of this initiative.

Applications can be submitted by cities with populations above 20,000 by 13 April 2018.

For more information please see: http://www.trade-city-award.eu/