Economic activism

You can utilise your economic power to make change by boycotting companies and organisations to pressure them to change their behaviour, or rewarding companies and organisations through patronage and positive social media.

Boycotting, and making choices about your consumerism, what you buy and where you put your money, are powerful ways to advocate for change and put your money where your mouth is. Spend your pennies wisely, and encourage others to do the same.

Economic activism, also known as economic protest or consumer activism, refers to deliberate actions taken by individuals, organisations, or communities to influence political change through economic means. This form of activism leverages economic power to address social and political issues, often targeting corporations, governments, or specific industries. Economic activism encompasses a wide range of tactics, including boycotts, divestment campaigns, shareholder activism, and ethical consumerism.

Economic consequences

One of the most direct ways economic activism can affect political change is by targeting the financial interests of institutions or entities that contribute to or perpetuate harmful practices. For example, boycotts and divestment campaigns can pressure companies to change their policies or practices related to labour rights, environmental sustainability, or human rights. By withholding financial support, activists can incentivise corporations to adopt more socially responsible behaviours or face economic consequences.

Economic activism success in the 2000s

Nike Sweatshop Campaign (1990s–2000s): In the late 1990s and early 2000s, various human rights and labour advocacy groups launched campaigns targeting Nike and other multinational corporations accused of utilising sweatshop labour in developing countries. These campaigns highlighted poor working conditions, low wages, and instances of child labour in factories producing Nike products. Through sustained pressure from activists, including boycotts, protests, and media campaigns, Nike and other companies began implementing measures to improve working conditions and increase transparency in their supply chains.

Fair Trade Movement The Fair Trade movement gained momentum in the 2000s, advocating for fair wages, humane working conditions, and environmental sustainability in global trade. Fair Trade certification programs, such as Fair Trade USA and Fairtrade International, emerged to promote ethical sourcing practices and ensure that producers in developing countries receive fair compensation for their goods.

How to take action