History of Trade Unions
Trade unions, also known as labor associations, began to form in the 19th century with the rise of the manual labor movement. Their main goals were to improve workplace safety, limit child and youth labor, and advocate for reasonable working hours.
A significant milestone in the trade union movement was May 1, 1886, when a strike in Chicago demanded an eight-hour workday under the slogan 8-8-8: 8 hours of work, 8 hours of rest, 8 hours of sleep. This day later became International Workers' Day.
The roots of trade unions in the Czech lands date back to the mid-19th century, similar to other countries. In Austria-Hungary, they were officially established in 1870 when the Austrian Parliament passed the Coalition Freedom Act. This law was adopted under pressure from labor demonstrations and allowed trade unions to better protect employees' interests.
It is important to recognize that today's working conditions are the result of long-term union efforts. As early as the Austro-Hungarian era, unions helped create laws improving the work environment, regulating working hours, and ensuring workplace safety.
The beginning of the organized trade union movement in the Czech lands is considered to be April 7, 1870, when the Coalition Freedom Act was passed. At that time, workers' associations, which initially focused on mutual aid activities, transformed into trade union organizations that legally protected the interests of their members and other employees.
The modern Czech trade union movement emerged in 1989 in response to the nature of unions during socialism. It built on historical traditions and, more than a century later, remains an essential part of Czech society.
Newly established trade unions formed the Czech and Slovak Confederation of Trade Unions, and within the Czech lands, the Czech-Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions (ČMKOS) was created. After the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, ČMKOS became the main representative of the Czech trade union movement.
ČMKOS has the authority to negotiate with key state representatives, such as the President, Government, Parliament, and other public administration and self-government bodies. It also represents employees in negotiations with employer organizations at the national level and can conclude general agreements with social partners and the government.
Company trade unions primarily operate at the corporate and sectoral levels. Their main role is collective bargaining, which includes methodological support, direct representation in negotiations, and educational activities in this area.
Collective bargaining takes place between two parties that conclude collective agreements.