Industrial relations differ across Europe and other parts of the world. Some have centralised bargaining at the core, others have strong decentralised elements. Some rely on collective agreements alone, others have elements of legislation as part of their system. In some countries the relationship between the social partners are characterised by a positive negotiation culturte. In others the relationship is more acrimonious.

But in all European countries, there is a functioning system. They are not the same, but they all produce results for working people.

Collective agreements form the basis of the industrial relations in most countries. They have been described as the core of the trade unions. They have been challenged especially during the recent crisis, but they are still there, and they are gradually reviving. 

After 25 years of working with European trade union colleagues, I can assist in creating a better understanding of the structures in other countries, and why the colleagues in these countries choose the policy approaches that they do.