What differentiates Nordic trade unions from others in Europe?
Our Nordic model is based on collective agreements, while countries in Southern Europe prefer to legislate. We want to continue with our model, but are demanding that labour law be improved at European level. There is a tradition of cooperation between employers and employees in the Nordic countries. In other parts of Europe, contacts between the parties easily lead to conflicts. What is NOFS’ most important demand right now? That the proposed EU Service Directive be dropped. We want foreign companies working in the Nordic countries to adapt to our collective agreements. The Directive is a threat to that principle, with a risk of social dumping. You have a wristband saying “Make poverty history”, which means you want to abolish poverty in the world. Tell us more. International solidarity is a matter close to my heart. The Nordic Public Service Unions have a trade union project in Thailand. The union representatives there have realised how expensive it can be when water and energy are m
