An information systems perspective on ethical trade and self-regulation

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Duncombe, Richard | Heeks, Richard

Affiliations: Institute for Development Policy and Management, University of Manchester, Precinct Centre, Manchester, M13 9QH, UK

Note: [] Corresponding author. Tel.: +44 161 275 2800; Fax: +44 161 273 8829; E-mail: richard.heeks@man.ac.uk

Abstract: Increasing numbers of ethical trade initiatives are being launched, reflecting concerns about the limited benefits that globalising trade brings to producers in developing countries. Ethical trade is an information-intensive activity. Yet little is known about the role of information systems in supporting ethical trade. This paper provides a preliminary conceptualisation of ethical trade regulatory information systems. It presents models and issues in relation to both information, and information and communication technologies. Ethical trade – with its voluntary codes and consumer campaigns – also represents a new approach to interaction between market actors. This is the approach of self-regulation, that moves beyond binding state regulation and sanctions to something seen as more appropriate to a globalised, liberalised economy. Findings about information systems and ethical trade therefore also advance our understanding of self-regulation.

Journal: Information Technology for Development, vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 123-138, 2003