What is the role of a trade union?

The primary role of a trade union is to protect the rights and interests of workers. Trade unions are formed to collectively represent the workforce and to advocate for better working conditions, fair wages, job security, and various other employment-related issues. By uniting workers, unions enhance their bargaining power when negotiating with employers. This collective effort ensures that workers have a voice in decisions affecting their work lives, promoting overall fairness and equity within the workplace.

Through collective bargaining, unions negotiate contracts that detail wages, benefits, and workplace safety protocols, which all contribute to safeguarding the interests of their members. Additionally, trade unions often engage in political action and advocacy efforts, further supporting the rights of workers at broader societal and legislative levels.