Trade unions

Trade Union
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Type	Labor union
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A trade union (or labor union in the United States) is an organization of workers who have come together to achieve common goals such as protecting the integrity of their trade, achieving higher pay, increasing the number of employees an employer assigns to complete the work, and better working conditions. The trade union, through its leadership, bargains with the employer on behalf of union members (collective bargaining) and negotiates labor contracts (collective bargaining agreements) with employers. The most common purpose of these associations or unions is "maintaining or improving the conditions of their employment".

History

Trade unions have a long and important history, originating in Europe during the Industrial Revolution. Workers were seeking ways to improve their working conditions and protect themselves from capricious employment practices. Over time, trade unions have become more organized and influential in labor markets, engaging in political activities and negotiations to enhance workers' rights and working conditions globally.

Structure and governance

The structure of a trade union can vary considerably, but most trade unions are hierarchical to some extent. At the top is usually a national executive committee, which directs the union and makes decisions on policy. The leadership of a trade union consists of elected members, including a president, secretary, and treasurer. These leaders are responsible for the strategic planning and management of the union's resources.

Types of trade unions

Trade unions vary in their composition and objectives. Some unions represent workers from a particular sector, like the United Auto Workers (UAW) or the National Education Association (NEA), while others may represent a cross-section of workers from various sectors. There are also industrial unions that represent all workers within a particular industry, regardless of their specific roles.

Activities

Trade unions engage in several activities, including:

• Negotiating wages and work conditions with employers
• Providing legal assistance to members
• Organizing strikes or protests to enforce their demands
• Participating in policy making through advocacy or lobbying activities

Challenges

Trade unions face numerous challenges today, including a decline in membership in some regions, legal restrictions in others, and broad changes in the global economy. Additionally, the rise of gig economy jobs, which typically do not fall under traditional employment laws, poses a significant challenge to traditional union activities.

Impact

Trade unions have played a significant role in shaping labor laws and workers' rights worldwide. They have been instrumental in securing legislation and regulations concerning work hours, minimum wage standards, workplace safety, and workers' compensation.

See also

• Collective bargaining
• Labor rights
• Strike action
• Workers' compensation