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07 The Finnish labour market system

These pages provide information about the labour market in Finland. We’ll also explain how the law and collective agreements define the rights and obligations of employees.

Last updated: March 24, 2026

In this section, we’ll answer questions such as:

What are the benefits of union membership for me?
Is a collective agreement the same thing as an employment contract?
How does the European Union affect working in Finland?

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Section Content

7.1

Trade unions

Anyone working in Finland can become a trade union member.

7.2

Trade union confederations and employers’ confederations

Trade unions and employers’ associations are organisations that represent employees and employers.

7.3

Collective agreements

A collective agreement is an agreement on the terms and conditions of employment in the…

7.4

Industrial action

Industrial action refers to actions such as strikes, overtime bans, and lockouts.

7.5

Cooperation in the workplace

Cooperation refers to dialogue and negotiation between employers and employees on workplace matters.

7.6

Labour law

There are many rules in the workplace that employees and employers must follow.

7.7

The international labour movement

The European Union also drafts legislation that affects labour relations.