Fair Trade as an aid for the developing countries: Does it help to whom it should?

This thesis explores principles and requirements set by the Fair Trade organisation. It is trying to find out if the membership in the organisation pays off and if the given rules don't limit some potential applicant's entrance. The research is carried out on the coffee market, because coffee is the most important Fair Trade article. The thesis conducts a survey on the coffee market and the specialized. The issues are examined based on organisation membership costs and benefits that arise with participation, particularly entrance and membership fees or minimal Fair Trade price. These conditions are examined in some participating countries, especially Costa Rica. The thesis comes with the conclusion, that Fair Trade is advantageous for its members, but to less extent than Fair Trade can offer, thanks to consumers insufficient demand. The thesis also clarifies, that the conditions set by Fair Trade limits acces to some producers