Fair trade certification and class formation in Nicaragua’s coffee plantations

Abstract

ABSTRACT Focusing on the first Fair Trade USA-certified coffee plantation in Nicaragua, this paper examines its overlooked effects on class formation among coffee workers. It first explores the type of workers the certification aims to shape; second, their impact on short-term material interests; and third, the emergence of a distinct class with a conscious understanding of their struggles. I show how, by emphasizing economic aspects, the certification oversimplifies the complex and antagonistic relationship between workers and landowners. I argue that the ‘market-driven’ class formation resulting from certification can hinder workers’ transition from a ‘class-in-itself’ (socio-economic category) to a ‘class-for-itself’ (political category).