työntekijäjärjestön

Työntekijäjärjestö, known in English as a labor union or trade union, is an organization of workers who have joined together to pursue common interests in the workplace. These interests typically revolve around wages, working hours, benefits, job security, and safe working conditions. Työntekijäjärjestöt aim to improve the terms and conditions of employment for their members through collective bargaining with employers.

The fundamental principle behind a työntekijäjärjestö is collective power. By uniting, individual employees can exert greater influence on their employer than they could alone. This collective strength allows them to negotiate more effectively for better terms and to address grievances or disputes that may arise. Membership in a työntekijäjärjestö is usually voluntary, though in some countries or specific industries, union membership might be more prevalent or even a condition of employment.

Key activities of a työntekijäjärjestö include negotiating collective agreements, which are legally binding contracts between the union and the employer outlining wages, benefits, and working conditions. They also represent members in disputes, provide legal assistance, and advocate for legislation that protects workers' rights. In cases where negotiations fail, työntekijäjärjestöt may resort to industrial action, such as strikes, to pressure employers into meeting their demands. The existence and activities of työntekijäjärjestöt are a significant feature of many modern labor markets.