Tillitsvalgte

Tillitsvalgte are elected representatives of employees within a workplace who advocate for workers’ interests in relations with the employer and the trade union. They serve as a link between colleagues and management, helping to communicate concerns, negotiate with the employer, and ensure that agreements and workplace rules are implemented fairly. Their work covers issues related to wages, working conditions, and workplace policies, and they often cooperate with safety representatives to promote a healthy work environment.

Election and scope

Tillitsvalgte are elected by members of a trade union at a specific workplace, typically for a defined period, such as two to three years. Many workplaces appoint a varatillitsvalgt (deputy) to assist and stand in when the primary tillitsvalgte is unavailable. The exact duties and authority of a tillitsvalgte can vary by country, sector, and the applicable collective agreement.

Functions and responsibilities

Their responsibilities include informing and advising colleagues about rights and procedures, representing employees in meetings with management, and handling grievances and disciplinary matters. They participate in negotiations and discussions related to collective agreements, workplace changes, and policy development, and they collaborate with the union to address broader labor- and safety-related issues at the workplace.

Rights and protections

Tillitsvalgte typically have rights to information from the employer relevant to their work, participation in certain meetings, and protection against retaliation for union activities. They may receive training and, in many contexts, access to time off or adjusted work arrangements to fulfill their duties effectively.

Relation to broader industrial relations

The concept is central to Nordic models of industrial relations, emphasizing collaboration between employers, employees, and unions. The exact rights, procedures, and structures for tillhetsvalgte vary across countries, sectors, and collective agreements.

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