Labor Union

Workers’ unions, commonly called labor unions, trade unions, or workers’ associations, are voluntary associations of employees in a particular sector, occupation or place of work that combine their efforts to protect and promote the shared interests, rights and working conditions. The labor unions give the collective voice and representation of workers through the negotiation with employers about the wages, benefits, working time, workplace safety and other employment issues. Labor unions can resort to collective bargaining, strikes, picketing, and lobbying as methods to advance their members' interests and ensure a decent treatment in different industries. Labor unions have a huge role in shaping labor relations, contributing to changes in employment rules and regulations, and fighting for workers’ rights and social and economic justice at the workplace.

Example of Labor Union

Consider a manufacturing plant Delta Industries where workers are discontent about the work conditions, low wages, and no benefits. Due to these complaints, the workers decide to establish the Delta Workers Union to collectively try to make their grievances heard and negotiate with the management for better working conditions. The workers of Delta Union choose their representatives and the leadership of the union to speak to the management of Delta Industries about the matters of their employees. The Delta Workers Union uses the process of collective bargaining to negotiate on behalf of the workers for wage increment, health insurance, retirement plans and the improvement of workplace safety. Negotiations reaching a deadlock, the Delta Workers Union will vote to allow for a strike or work stoppage to force management to consider their demands. Through coordination and collective action as a labor union, the employees at Delta Industries capitalize on their strength and unity in order to create favorable conditions for work and a better quality of life.