A trade union, also known as a labor union, is an organization of workers who come together to maintain or improve the conditions of their employment, such as attaining better wages and working conditions. The following are some key points about trade unions:
- A trade union is a membership-based organization, and its membership must be made up mainly of workers.
- The primary aim of a trade union is to protect and advance the interests of its members in the workplace.
- Trade unions negotiate agreements with employers on pay and conditions, discuss major changes to the workplace, accompany members in disciplinary and grievance meetings, provide members with legal and financial advice, and provide education facilities and certain consumer benefits such as discounted insurance.
- Unions may organize a particular section of skilled or unskilled workers, a cross-section of workers from various trades, or an attempt to organize all workers within a particular industry.
- The agreements negotiated by a union are binding on the rank-and-file members and the employer, and in some cases on other non-member workers.
- Trade unions have existed in the UK for centuries, and although membership levels have decreased significantly since their peak in the 1970s, they remain a legitimate and important form of employee voice.
- Most trade unions are independent of employers but have close working relationships with them.
- Unions train and organize workplace representatives who help union members with the problems they face at work. Reps provide support and advice and campaign for better conditions and pay.
- Trade unions have brought significant changes to society, including a national minimum wage, the abolition of child labor, and improved worker safety.
- Trade unions are legal in many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
In summary, trade unions are organizations of workers who come together to protect and advance their interests in the workplace. They negotiate with employers on behalf of their members and provide support and advice to members. Trade unions have existed for centuries and have brought significant changes to society. They are legal in many countries.
