Principles and Approach
World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) programs are based on four key principles:
- Long-Term Solutions Matter More than “Quick Fixes”
- Partnerships Drive Success
- Community Involvement is Essential
- The Chocolate Industry Plays a Key Role
Long-Term Solutions Matter More than “Quick Fixes”
Real, lasting change takes time. And real change is what cocoa farming communities need. WCF member companies share a long-term commitment, an interest in supporting programs that make a deep, lasting impact. The WCF tackles the long-standing, systemic issues that face cocoa farmers, and the complex web that links one issue to others. There are no short cuts.
Partnerships Drive Success
The challenges facing cocoa farmers, their families and their communities are interconnected. Solutions require creativity, a wide range of experience and deep expertise. That is why the WCF seeks out the advice and involvement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), donor organizations, research institutions and independent experts. By bringing together these experts with the private sector, the WCF can make a difference.
Community Involvement is Essential
The WCF and its members believe that no program can succeed without the active, ongoing engagement of the cocoa farming community. "Top down" approaches are prone to failure. Cocoa farming communities bring a unique understanding of the challenges they face, creativity in developing solutions, and the ability to bring about real change. The involvement of the community – from the start – is essential.
These principles guide the WCF in addressing the challenges facing cocoa farmers. They help the organization develop and implement programs on the ground in West Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America that are making a real difference in farming communities.
The Chocolate Industry Plays a Key Role
WCF members recognize and embrace their role in helping cocoa farming families worldwide. The WCF channels the private sector’s energy, ideas and resources to help address the challenges facing cocoa farmers.