ABOUT THE ARTISAN
Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (BFTA) supports the most vulnerable artisans in the West Bank so they can maintain their local handcraft traditions. Your purchase helps artisans restore their dignity with skill training and places to sell their products, helping them to become active agents in their own livelihoods and to develop their social rights and communities.
Over the past few years, Bethlehem-area artisans have faced increased challenges: fewer tourists to buy their products, a lack of employment opportunities, and limited resources. Increased international competition has also exploited artisans and made it harder for them to receive fair prices. Committed to the principles of fair trade, BFTA artisans are introduced to new markets and are supported with skills training and other development opportunities. Working with artisan producers specializing in olive wood, embroidery, and hand-painted ceramics, BFTA promotes and celebrates cherished Palestinian culture and traditions.
