Trade Union
There are a few distinct features to working in Norway. First of all, a flat hierarchical structure is common, and freedom of speech is expected. In addition, there is a strong trade union culture present, and workers’ rights are frequently discussed both inside and outside the workplace.
A trade union represents the employees and helps navigate the system if problems arise at the workplace, or if you need help in any other way related to your work situation.
Did you know? In the public sector, all employees are encouraged to take on positions as employee representative, health and safety representative etc.
Trade Union History
Unions came about as a result of a large imbalance in power between workers and employers at the start of the Industrial Revolution. The employees were vulnerable to what the employers decided. Nor did society have the safety nets through legislation or support schemes for the unemployed that we are used to today. The workers could easily be fired and had few resources to fight back with. This could include long working days of up to eighteen hours, a six-day working week, no holiday, no retirement pension and no protection against dismissal or support in the event of workplace injury.