Työtaistelutoimet

Työtaistelutoimet, or labor struggle measures, refer to the actions taken by employees or their representatives to address grievances, improve working conditions, or resolve disputes with employers. These measures are typically employed when negotiations or other forms of dialogue fail to yield satisfactory results. In Finland, where the term "työtaistelutoimet" is commonly used, these actions are governed by labor laws and collective agreements.

There are several types of työtaistelutoimet, ranging from mild to more severe. Mild measures include work-to-rule, where employees strictly adhere to their job descriptions without engaging in any extra duties, and overtime bans, where workers refuse to work beyond their standard hours. These measures aim to disrupt the employer's operations minimally while making a point about the employees' concerns.

More severe measures include strikes, where employees collectively refuse to work for a certain period, and boycotts, where workers refuse to handle or deal with certain products or services. In some cases, employees may also engage in go-slows, where they deliberately work at a slower pace than usual. These measures are usually a last resort and are often preceded by extensive negotiations and attempts at mediation.

Työtaistelutoimet are typically organized and led by labor unions, which represent the interests of their members. The decision to engage in these measures is usually made through a democratic process, involving a vote by the union members affected. Employers, on the other hand, may respond to työtaistelutoimet by locking out employees, which is a measure where the employer refuses to allow employees to work.

In Finland, the right to engage in työtaistelutoimet is protected by law, but it is also subject to certain restrictions. For instance, essential services, such as healthcare and public transportation, have specific regulations to ensure that strikes do not disrupt these critical services. Additionally, there are legal requirements for notice periods and cooling-off periods before certain types of työtaistelutoimet can be initiated.