sustainable development

WCCN supports alternative development models aimed at overcoming current economic inequalities in Nicaragua, promoting greater justice for the majority of Nicaraguans. Our projects include:

• The Nicaraguan Credit Alternatives Fund (NICA Fund), which provides loans to support economic development in low-income communities.
• The Fair Trade Coffee Educational Project, which establishes ties between consumers in the North and small-scale farmer-producers in Central America. Enjoy organic coffee, and support farmers in Nicaragua, Mexico, Colombia and El Salvador.

For other news and events related to WCCN's sustainable development projects, click here.

by Richard Barajas, WCCN Intern and UW-Madison Student

In the past decade the importance of free trade agreements to the countries of the world has grown exponentially. The effect of these agreements on countries in Central America had been minimal; this however changed with the passing of the Dominican Republic and Central American Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA).

The passing of this agreement by congress has been a contentious issue in the United States (www.ustr.gov). It has also been an important issue for the individuals and groups that are at the forefront of the anti-globalization movement. In order to better understand these issues and the complaints that are brought up, there must first be an explanation of what a free trade agreement is and how DR-CAFTA fits into this framework. We can then discuss the possible benefits to Nicaragua from this agreement as well as the possible drawbacks.

Finally I can pause and consolidate my reflections of this study tour! It´s my second time in Nicaragua, after participating last January while still a volunteer for WCCN. Now, even after working full-time for WCCN for the past nine months, the immersive study is no less eye-opening.

We decided to take this travel opportunity to obtain video footage for the production of a NICA Fund informational film. This has added to the logistical planning, and made for some long days, but it has also added an exciting element. Brian, the filmmaker, is more talented and professional than we realized, and he has proven to be more than a filmmaker, actively engaged in all facets of the study.