In response to the U.S. Department of Labor's decision to cut an estimated $500 million in funding for the Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB), Fairtrade America issued the below statement from Amanda Archila, Executive Director:

“The fight against child labor, forced labor, and human trafficking has long been a bipartisan cause. Far from putting 'America last,' ILAB’s grants fundamentally advance American interests and values. They raise labor standards around the world, benefitting American workers; maintain the integrity of our trade agreements, and promote human rights in the supply chains of products that Americans love, including coffee, chocolate, and more.

"Turning America’s back on those striving for decent, equitable work and freedom from forced labor is a blow to our core values. The loss of these grants will have direct and immediate impact on the farmers, workers, and civil society organizations who have been dedicated to turning the tide on these systemic challenges. The consequences on vulnerable communities, and most certainly on American businesses and consumers, will far outweigh the cost of ILAB’s essential programs.”