Rom Dvir named as Chair of the Hospitality, Agriculture, and Chemical Workers’ Union at the Histadrut

Rom Dvir has been appointed as the new Chair of the Hospitality, Agriculture, and Chemical Workers’ Union within the Histadrut, following a special meeting of the union’s secretariat. Dvir, 45, currently heads the Unionization Department at the Workers’ Organization Division, and will succeed outgoing Chair Freddy Cohen, who led the union for many years and played a key role in advancing workers’ rights across the hospitality, agriculture, and chemical sectors.

The Hospitality, Agriculture, and Chemical Workers’ Union represents tens of thousands of employees nationwide, including workers in youth hostels, event venues, rehabilitation services, and domestic work. Its mission is to safeguard workers’ rights, promote collective bargaining, improve working conditions, and lead professional training initiatives. The union serves as a vital resource for employees in these industries, ensuring job security and protection against rights violations.

Over his 15-year career at the Histadrut, Dvir has held numerous positions, notably through the establishment of the Workers’ Organization Division, which revolutionized unionization in Israel and brought hundreds of workplaces into the fold. He also manages the Artists’ Division and has been involved in key renewal processes and major labor struggles in recent years.

“I am grateful for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to lead such an important union,” said Dvir. “Hospitality, agriculture, and chemical industries are pillars of the Israeli economy, and their workers deserve recognition, improved conditions, and opportunities for professional growth. I intend to work collaboratively to ensure the union remains a strong and protective home for every worker. A stronger union and more satisfied workers ultimately translate into better service for the Israeli public. I thank Freddy Cohen for his tremendous contribution over the years and promise to continue his legacy while bringing fresh energy to the union. I also wish to thank Histadrut Chair Arnon Bar-David for his support and confidence.”

Outgoing Chair Freddy Cohen congratulated Dvir, saying:

“I am proud of the path we have taken together—myself as Chair and all union members. From the agreements we achieved to improving working conditions and strengthening the union’s standing, it has been an honor to lead and represent workers in such vital sectors. Recent years have been challenging for the industries we represent and for the workers themselves. We had to reinvent ourselves to keep tourism alive and prevent collapse, as well as in agriculture. I am proud to say we succeeded. But this approach must continue—supporting, strengthening, and preparing for any scenario. I wish Rom great success and thank all partners for their commitment and shared efforts.”