The labour movement has been the most important historical driver of labour standards and worker’s rights. Trade unions have also frequently been in the forefront of wider struggles for political change, democracy and social justice. This has led to their engagement in a range of activities such as campaigning and advocacy, education and awareness raising, policy development and the development of mutual financial institutions.

Functions of Trade Unions 

Aim to further its members’ interests, via the following:

•  Obtain satisfactory rates of pay.
•  Protecting workers jobs
• Securing adequate work facilities
• Ensuring satisfactory work conditions, this can include areas such as health and safety and equal opportunities.
• Negotiating bonuses for achieving targets
• Negotiating employment conditions and job descriptions

Objectives and Activities of Trade Unions

Collective bargaining:
Where trade unions are able to operate openly and are recognised by employers, they may negotiate with employers over wages and working conditions.

Industrial action:
Trade unions may organize strikes or resistance to lockouts in furtherance of particular goals.