What is a trade union?

A trade union is an association of employees. They come together voluntarily to represent the interests of all trade union members vis-à-vis employers and the state. Trade unions are independent, i.e. they are not dependent on the state, political parties or churches.

Trade unions are organised democratically: There are statutes, elections for certain functions and the members have a say. The statutes are like a law and all members of the trade union must abide by them. The statutes set out the objective and structure, rights and obligations of the trade union and its members.