The Trade Union Representative

Dear colleagues,
We are pleased to present this lesson as part of the Arab Trade Union Confederation’s educational platform, focusing on the essential role of the trade union representative in defending workers’ rights and advancing union work within the workplace.

The trade union representative serves as the daily face of the union and the key link between workers and the organizational structures of the union. They carry the responsibility of conveying concerns, framing demands, participating in dialogue with management, and playing a vital role in awareness-raising, support, and representation.

Through this lesson, we aim to:
• Understand the core responsibilities of trade union representatives across various levels of engagement.
• Explore the legal framework governing their roles and protections.
• Develop practical skills in communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution in the workplace.
• Strengthen a trade union culture grounded in rights and responsibilities.

The lesson is accompanied by practical examples, video modules, and reference materials to support both new and experienced representatives in carrying out their roles effectively and with a strong sense of trade union awareness.

Empowering trade union representatives with the tools of understanding and influence is a vital step toward building strong unions capable of representing workers with dignity and independence.

Let us begin this lesson with a spirit of commitment, and elevate the role of the trade union representative from a representative function to a leadership and field-based role in the defense of social justice and decent work.