Työehtosäännöillä

Työehtosäännöillä, known in English as "collective agreements" or "terms of employment regulations," are legally binding agreements that define the terms and conditions of employment for a specific group of workers. These agreements are typically negotiated between employer organizations or individual employers and trade unions representing employees. They cover a wide range of aspects related to the employment relationship, including wages, working hours, holidays, sick leave, and other benefits.

The primary purpose of työehtosäännöillä is to establish a framework for fair and predictable employment conditions. They aim to balance the interests of both employers and employees, promoting industrial peace and cooperation. By standardizing these conditions, they can also contribute to a more level playing field within an industry.

These agreements are a cornerstone of labor relations in many countries, particularly in Nordic countries. They are often sector-specific, meaning different industries will have their own unique collective agreements. The terms of a työehtosäännökset are generally considered the minimum standards, and individual employment contracts cannot offer less favorable terms than those stipulated in the collective agreement. However, they can be more generous. The enforcement and interpretation of these agreements are often handled through labor courts or arbitration.