The International Seed Federation (ISF) has issued a new guidance document aimed at helping seed companies, suppliers, growers and associations strengthen social rights and ethical practices in seed production.

The guidelines, “A Practical Guide for Seed Production: Navigating Social Rights and Ethical Practices in the Seed Sector,” will be officially launched on May 20 at the ISF World Seed Congress 2026 in Lisbon.

Voluntary Framework Built for Practical Use

The guidelines are intended as a voluntary, practical tool to help stakeholders across the seed sector implement responsible labor practices and align with international social recommendations and standards. ISF stated that the organization recognizes that many companies and organizations already have robust social compliance and responsible sourcing programs in place. The document is designed to complement existing practices with a focus on awareness-raising, capacity building and continuous improvement for organizations that are still building capacity.

“Seed production depends on people — farmers, workers, partners and communities. Their rights, dignity and well-being are fundamental to a resilient and responsible seed sector,” said Michal Keller, secretary general of ISF.

“With these guidelines, ISF is building on the great work that many companies are already doing and providing a practical pathway for other companies and actors involved in seed production to implement responsible business practices,” Keller added.

Rooted in Global Frameworks, Designed for Companies of All Sizes

The guidelines are grounded in internationally recognized frameworks, including the Ethical Trading Initiative Base Code, the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the International Labor Organization’s core conventions. They are also framed to support companies responding to emerging due diligence and reporting expectations, according to ISF.

The document covers 12 core areas of responsible seed production, including fair employment practices, forced and child labor, health and safety, legal compensation and benefits, working hours, non-discrimination, grievance mechanisms, responsible sourcing and supplier engagement, freedom of association, respect for Indigenous people and local communities, and environmental protection.

The guidance is intended for stakeholders across the seed value chain, from seed companies to smallholder growers and seasonal laborers. The document states that seed companies and suppliers, regardless of their level of social compliance maturity, are encouraged to apply the principles in ways that fit their context and capacity.

“This is a practical resource,” said Ben Rivoire, ISF director for sustainability and crop value chain engagement. “It goes beyond general commitments by providing clear examples of what responsible practice looks like in day-to-day operations, including concrete dos and don’ts. It also reflects a strong belief that awareness-raising, capacity building and collaboration are essential to lasting progress.”

“Our industry depends on people, farmers, partners, workers and communities and their dignity and safety are essential for our long-term success," said Sucheta Ramprakash, global head of sustainability of East-West Seed. "These guidelines help promote fair and safe working conditions and also respect human rights across the value chain. A unified approach helps build trust, reduce risk and strengthen long-term sustainability.”

A Pre-Competitive Effort Built Through Collaboration

The guidelines were developed through a collaborative process involving member companies, national and regional seed associations and non-governmental organizations.

“We support the ISF voluntary Social Rights Guideline, because in our sector, we have a shared responsibility that goes beyond our products," said Bas Gorissen, global sustainability manager of BASF ǀ Nunhems. "Use the checklist and the training tools to make social responsibility a part of everyday business. Together we can make social responsibility a practical reality across our industry, and raise the bar on this important topic.”

“We decided to join the ISF Social Rights Guidelines because we believe this is the best way for our sector to move forward responsibly, pragmatically and most importantly, collaboratively," said Elisabeta Fitó, corporate director of Semillas Fitó. "These guidelines provide a framework grounded in international standards, adapted to our seed sector.”

The full guidelines and e-learning course can be accessed on the ISF website from May 20.