Corporacion Cactus - Colombia

Cactus provides training in labor rights, legal defense mechanisms, social and psychological understanding of processes, worker health and safety, and relevant environmental issues. They produce the Boletin Cactus, which is published every 4 months and carries articles on the international flower industry, just and sustainable production practices, the environment, the economy, and other topics of interest. Cactus broadcasts a radio programme which is heard in the region where flowers are produced. It features exchanges between workers and the local population on different aspects of the flower industry. They also have plans to publish the results of studies they have carried out on the industry.

Rights, Women.

Since its beginning in the 1960s, flower production in Coombia has grown to become one of hte country's most important industries. Colombia is the second biggest flower exporting country in the world.

78% of the flowers grown in Colombia are sold in the USA.

12% of the flowers grown in Colombia are sold to the European Union.

According to the Colombian Association of Flower Exporters (ASOCOLFLORES) 75,000 people are directly employed in the industry adn 50,000 more indirectly employed in industry-related jobs.

70% of flower workers are women, many with little formal education. The majority are heads of families.Because Colombian-grown flowers are directed towards international markets, Cactus has focused on establishing relationships with European fair trading organisations. Cactus takes a dual approach to its work by coordinating activities with local workers and with international allies..