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Collective Bargaining

Collective bargaining is a process where employees, usually represented by a union, negotiate with their employer to determine wages, hours, working conditions, and other terms of employment collectively rather than individually.

Example #1

For example, a group of factory workers may form a union and collectively bargain with the factory management to increase their hourly wages and improve safety measures within the workplace.

Example #2

Another example could be teachers coming together through a union to negotiate for smaller class sizes and better benefits.

Misuse

Misuse of collective bargaining can occur when employers engage in unfair labor practices, such as refusing to negotiate in good faith or intimidating employees who are exercising their right to bargain collectively. It's crucial to protect against misuse to ensure that employees have a fair chance to advocate for their rights and interests.

Benefits

The benefit of collective bargaining is that it empowers employees to have a unified voice and leverage in negotiations with their employer. By bargaining collectively, employees can often achieve better wages, benefits, and working conditions than they would individually.

Conclusion

Collective bargaining plays a vital role in ensuring fair labor practices and empowering employees to negotiate better terms of employment. Protecting the right to collectively bargain is essential for maintaining a balanced relationship between employers and employees.

Related Terms

Workers' Rights