In Denmark, there is a
tradition for employees to be a member of a trade union. The trade
unions safeguard the interests of their members in relation to
employers, ensuring reasonable salary and working conditions. A trade
union is not the same as an unemployment fund.
There
is also a tradition for employers to be members of organised
associations. Most employers and their associations are happy to work
together with trade unions. They see it as an advantage that employees
thrive and feel satisfied in the workplace. At the same time,
collective agreements ensure stability and orderly conditions in
relation to wage increases, strikes and working hours. Read the rest of the article...
Unemployment insurance funds
As a member of an
unemployment insurance fund (a-kasse / arbejdsløshedskasse), you
have a right to higher benefits (dagpenge) should you be laid off.
You can also take a leave of absence from your job
in order to look after your children, should you decide to do so.
But the value of
being a member of an unemployment insurance fund doesn't just boil
down to pounds and pennies. One of the
chief purposes of your unemployment insurance fund is to help you
navigate in the unemployment system, and to land you safe and sound
in a new job. Your unemployment insurance
fund can also guide you with respects to courses and educations that
may help you get working again.
If don't already
hold membership of an unemployment insurance fund, you may sign up
for one if:
-
You hold
residence in Denmark
-
You are between
the age of 18 and 63 (65 if you were born before July 1st 1939)
-
You currently
hold a job as a salary earner within the professional field catered
to by the unemployment insurance fund
Theoretically, it is
your choice whether your want full-time or part-time insurance.
However, if you work full-time, you should definitely opt for
full-time insurance.
Remember that the
dues you have to pay depend on your employment status within the job
market. Contact the local branch of your unemployment insurance fund
regarding the pros and cons of being insured.
