A labor union is an organization formed by workers in a particular trade, industry, or company for the purpose of improving pay, benefits, and working conditions. The main purpose of a labor union is to represent the collective interests of workers and to bargain with employers over such concerns as wages and working conditions. Here are some key points about labor unions:

• Labor unions are specific to industries and work like democracies.
• Labor unions have local chapters, each of which obtains a charter from the national-level organization.
• U.S. law requires an employer to actively bargain with a union in good faith; however, the employer is not required to agree to any specific terms.
• Labor unions have played a critical role in the workforce of the United States. In the industrial space, labor unions fought for safer conditions, better working hours, and better pay. Labor unions also worked to stop child labor.
• Union contracts specify workers’ pay, hours, benefits, and working conditions.
• Unions enable workers to negotiate for higher wages and benefits and improve conditions in the workplace.
• Unions are democratic bodies, and union members democratically elect their leaders who are then responsible for advocating for the good of the unit.
• Labor union contracts create higher wage and benefit standards, working hours limits, workplace hazards protections, and other factors. Unions also promote well-being by encouraging democratic participation and a sense of community among workers.

In summary, the purpose of a labor union is to protect workers economic status and working conditions by negotiating with employers for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for union members.