Blog: July 2009

Demonstrators draw attention to “Canada’s Ugly Secret” on Canada Day

July 8, 2009

Asbestos is dangerous for workers because they are exposed to very high concentration of asbestos fibers. The asbestos fibers can be inhaled by laborers and cause cancerous growths in the lungs and abdomen. Workers in the developing countries are at even higher risk as are their families and communities that also come into contact with asbestos. Worldwide, about 125 million people are exposed to asbestos at work and at least 90,000 die each year from asbestos-related diseases, according to the World Health Organization.

Will Obama visit cocoa farmers in Ghana?

July 8, 2009

It is expected that a major part of President Obama's message during his visit to Ghana will be on promoting increased US investment in agricultural development projects in Africa.  Given this focus, it makes a lot of sense for Obama to visit Kuapa Kokoo and see first hand how farmers are working together to implement farming practices that are more socially and environmentally sustainable.  The US should be supporting projects like Kuapa Kokoo that empower farmers and are driven by farmers themselves.  Obama also promised to promote fair trade principles during the presidential campaign, so visiting Kuapa Kokoo would be a great opportunity to see first hand how farmers in Ghana are working to develop different models of global trade.

Women Will Bring Home the Bacon?

July 2, 2009

Globally, the economic opportunities for women are even worse.  According to the International Labour Organization’s recent report on “Global Employment Trends for Women,” female workers not only receive lower pay, but in many countries, they are often restricted from the ability to work even though it would significantly benefit their families.  Even when they are allowed to work, they are often limited in their employment options due to a lack of access to certain industries.  

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