The fight against poverty is at the centre of the shared objectives of human rights and development cooperation. A holistic understanding of poverty sees it as the result of discrimination, exclusion and disempowerment, and as such it is considered as a violation of the rights laid down in the international human rights conventions.

The discussion on social standards is substantially influenced by the working conditions in electronics, textile and sports goods factories producing globally marketed brands. Working conditions in these factories are a matter of grave concern. Most governments do not ensure the enforcement of labour legislation, and thus pave the way for abuse. Social standards are based on conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Farmers' families and plantation workers in the so-called developing countries also live under the constant pressure of the world market, fluctuating prices and exploitative local intermediaries. The consequences range from indebtedness via unemployment to impoverishment.
In its work on behalf of the most disadvantaged, its commitment to fighting poverty, and its pastoral cooperation, Fastenopfer promotes values and attitudes that respect human rights.