THE ROLE OF LABOR UNION IN PROTECTING EMPLOYEES’ INTEREST : THE CASE OF COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The primary function of a trade union is to promote and protect the interest of its members, improve working and living conditions and represent workers' interests.The objective of the research is to examine the role of labor union in protecting employees’ interest in CBE by applying descriptive research design and qualitative research approache like document analysis and interview and quantitative research approache like questinnares; by using simple random samling and purposive sampling technique. For this purpose, 22 questionnaires and 6 interview questions were used.The research was based on the responses of the various levels of union members who are working in the organization.200 self-administered questionnaires were distributed to labor union member respondents.Interview was held with union leaders. To analyze the data from the questionnaire the researcher applied descriptive statistics such as tables, frequency distribution, percentages,mean and standard deviation techniques and with regard to interview questions content and thematic analysis were used. The finding showed the role of labor union in CBE does not seen in a position to protect its members. They did not seen to bargaining power when they deal with top management for the issues of employees’ interests such as salary increments and benefits.Based on findings, the researcher recommended the Labor Union to assure full protection for members by discussing with employer and create awareness for using Labor Union media and it assured trusting by abuse of management for its members. Though, the role of labor union in the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia is needed to restructure for improvements in union involvement and collective bargaining process.