It’s OK to join the union in Finland
In Finland, the majority of employees are trade union members. Also, the majority of employers are members of employer associations.
Trade unions assist union members in matters related to their employment relationships. The unions provide advice and training for their members, negotiate to improve salaries and employment conditions as well as the quality of working life. The unions help their members to solve disputes with employers.
Trade unions are not authorities. Trade unions operate confidentially in compliance with the consent and best interest of their members.
When you join the Industrial Union, it is recommended that you also join the Open Unemployment Fund A-Kassa at the same time, provided you meet the membership criteria. The union includes A-Kassa membership as a membership service at no additional cost to you. This benefit is worth 96 euros per year.
This part of your membership fee is tax-deductible under Finland’s tax rules. You do not need to take any action to receive the tax deduction – A-Kassa will report the information directly to the Finnish Tax Administration.