Earlier this year I was fortunate to see Fernando Laposse’s 40 metre long tapestry, Conflict Avocados, at the NGV triennial exhibition. The tapestry alongside a documentary, raises awareness of the struggles faced by the people of Mexico due to the avocado trade. It was a confronting depiction of violence, displacement and tragedy. Yet it left the viewer feeling like there is always hope when a community comes together with one common purpose and goal in sight.
Around the world there are many examples of conflict agricultural products where the funds from the primary products sold are channelled to fund armed conflict. Coffee, cocoa and palm oil are some other examples alongside avocados. This issue is challenging to solve, as to stop funding the aggressors, you also cease to provide farmers and primary producers with a livelihood.
As consumers, our coffee choice has a significant impact. Buying ethically sourced coffee provides a stable income for coffee communities and reduces the incentive for involvement in conflict.
Around the world there are many examples of conflict agricultural products where the funds from the primary products sold are channelled to fund armed conflict. Coffee, cocoa and palm oil are some other examples alongside avocados. This issue is challenging to solve, as to stop funding the aggressors, you also cease to provide farmers and primary producers with a livelihood.
As consumers, our coffee choice has a significant impact. Buying ethically sourced coffee provides a stable income for coffee communities and reduces the incentive for involvement in conflict.