Some companies have trade unions or works councils. A trade union is an organization of employees. The union tries to represent the interests of the employees vis-à-vis the employer. As an employee you can join a trade union, become a member and contact the union in case of problems. More information on trade unions<\\/a> can be found here<\\/a>. The works council also tries to assert the interests of employees. The works council has some co-determination rights in the company. The members of the works council are elected by the employees. The main task of the works council is to stand up for the interests of the employees in the company. More information on works councils can be found here<\\/a>. Not all companies have a trade union or works council.      <\\/p>\