Trade unions and employers’ organisations
Trade unions and employers’ organisations play a central role in Finnish working life. They represent the interests of employees and employers and participate in shaping working conditions, wages, and labour market policies. Cooperation between these organisations is a key feature of the Finnish labour market model.
Trade unions
Trade unions represent employees in working life. They aim to protect workers’ rights, improve working conditions, and promote fair pay.
Union membership is voluntary, but a large share of employees in Finland belong to a trade union. Unions also provide advice and support to their members.
Employers’ organisations
Employers’ organisations represent companies and employers. They work to promote the interests of employers and participate in negotiations on working conditions.
These organisations provide guidance to employers and contribute to labour market policy discussions.
Collective bargaining
Collective bargaining is a process in which trade unions and employers’ organisations negotiate collective agreements. These agreements regulate wages, working hours, and other employment conditions.
Collective agreements often apply to entire sectors of the economy, not only to union members.
Importance in Finnish society
Trade unions and employers’ organisations influence not only working conditions but also broader social and economic policies.
Understanding their role helps individuals better navigate Finnish working life and labour relations.
Social dialogue and cooperation
Finnish labour market relations are based on dialogue and cooperation. Trade unions and employers’ organisations often work together with the government to address labour market challenges.
This cooperation contributes to stability and predictability in working life.