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Employers Union
An “Employers Union” or “Employers’ Organization” is an association or group formed by employers to represent their collective interests in labor and employment matters. While trade unions primarily represent workers, employers’ unions serve as the voice of employers and work to protect and advance their rights and interests in the workplace.
Employers’ unions typically operate at regional, national, or international levels, depending on the scope and reach of their members. These organizations play a significant role in shaping labor policies, engaging in social dialogue with trade unions and government authorities, and advocating for favorable business environments.
By forming employers’ unions, employers can collectively address their concerns, exert their influence in labor relations and public policy, and contribute to a favorable business environment. These organizations aim to support employers in achieving their business goals, ensuring fair labor practices, and fostering effective dialogue and cooperation with workers and other stakeholders.
Functions and Roles of Employers’ Unions:
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Advocacy and Representation: Employers’ unions represent the interests of their members in discussions and negotiations with trade unions, government bodies, and other stakeholders. They advocate for business-friendly policies, regulatory reforms, and favorable labor laws that promote competitiveness and sustainable growth.
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Collective Bargaining: Just like trade unions engage in collective bargaining on behalf of workers, employers’ unions negotiate with trade unions or labor federations to reach collective agreements that govern employment conditions, wages, benefits, and other labor-related matters.
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Policy Development: Employers’ unions play an active role in shaping labor and employment policies. They provide inputs, proposals, and recommendations to government bodies and other decision-makers on issues such as labor regulations, industrial relations, workplace safety, and other matters impacting employers’ interests.
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Legal Support and Advice: Employers’ unions provide legal guidance, advice, and support to their members on matters related to labor laws, employment contracts, dispute resolution, and compliance with regulatory requirements. They may offer resources, training, and legal representation in employment-related disputes or legal proceedings.
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Research and Information: Employers’ unions conduct research, collect data, and provide information on various labor and employment issues to their members. This information helps employers make informed decisions, adapt to changing labor market trends, and understand best practices in human resources management.
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Networking and Collaboration: Employers’ unions provide platforms for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among employers. They organize events, conferences, seminars, and workshops where members can exchange experiences, discuss common challenges, and learn from each other.
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Economic and Social Policy Engagement: Employers’ unions engage in economic and social policy discussions, both nationally and internationally. They participate in forums, consultations, and committees to influence policies and regulations related to labor, taxation, trade, investment, and other areas that impact employers.
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Capacity Building: Employers’ unions offer training programs, workshops, and educational resources to help their members enhance their knowledge and skills in areas such as labor relations, human resources management, and compliance with employment laws and regulations.
Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE)
The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) is the premier employer’s organization in Kenya, established in 1959 under the Trade Unions Act Cap 233, to represent the collective interest of employers in Kenya.
The Federation’s membership includes employers in the private and public sectors – including state cooperation’s, the local authorities and employers’ associations.
FKE provides a forum for employers in promoting sound industrial relations and observance of fair labor practices. The Federation also advocates, endorses, and defends the interests of employers. It also advices and assist its members on matters concerning dispute resolutions between employees and between employees and management which can damage the working environment and to productivity. In addition, the Federation supports good management practices and develops sustainable institutional capacity and competence among its members.