Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission examines labor conditions in global cut‑flower industry

WASHINGTON — The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, co‑chaired by Rep. Jim McGovern and Rep. Chris Smith, held a hearing on Oct. 12, 2025, to examine labor and human‑rights concerns in the global cut‑flower industry and to collect recommendations for U.S. policy.

Commission opening remarks framed the hearing around workers’ rights and supply‑chain transparency. “Many consumers want to ensure that the flowers they purchase for their loved ones are produced ethically,” Rep. McGovern said in his opening statement, noting the importance of protecting freedom of association and safe working conditions in producer countries.

The hearing brought together labor advocates, academics and industry representatives who described a mix of persistent labor violations, improvements driven by private certification and retailer pressure, and policy gaps that limit U.S. oversight. Witnesses highlighted recurrent issues across major producing countries: heavy use of pesticides and inconsistent personal protective equipment; widespread reliance on short‑term and outsourced labor during peak seasons; employer practices that undermine unionization (including collective agreements negotiated outside unions, described in testimony as “collective packs”); and limited public visibility into air freight manifests that impedes traceability.

Lisonbee Gill, legal director of Global Labor Justice,…