Functions of a labour union in an industry

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Discuss the functions of a labour union in modern industrial economy.

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Usually trade unions perform following functions:
(1) Fighting functions—Trade unions undertake fighting activities to protect workers' rights and to secure better wages and working conditions ; to stop victimisation and workers' exploitation. Modern unions accept the principle of collective bargaining as the fundamental base of trade union organisation. Trade unions organise strikes, demonstrations, picketing etc. to press its demands.
(2) Welfare functions—Trade unions undertake educational recreational and other activities for the welfare and development of their members. Trade unions arrange schools and educational centres, hotels, dispensaries, recreation centres, canteens, creches, playgrounds, social clubs and other facilities.
(3) Social Functions—Trade unions undertake functions relating to society. They render all sorts of constructive cooperation in the formulation and implementation of plans and policies relating to national development e.g., family planning, national integration, afforestation etc. They launch special campaigns against the social evils of corruption, nepotism, communalism, casteism, regionalism, price rise, black marketing etc.
(4) Representative Functions—Trade unions represent working class in the settlement of industrial disputes and in the management of industry. Trade unions represent the Working class at national and international forums. Trade unions send their representatives to the legislative assemblies and Parliament through general elections so that they may safeguard their own interest by getting ihe law passed in the Interest of working community.