Challenges at Work
In Finland, employees have rights that are protected by labor law and collective agreements. As an employee, you have the right to, for example, equal treatment, a salary determined in collective agreement, and a healthy and safe working environment.
However, disagreements and problems can arise in the workplace. Uncertainties may relate to, for example, salary, working hours, or other terms and conditions. Therefore, it is important that you have a written employment contract.
Ask for help!
If you encounter problems then you should first talk to your employer. Often, problems can be solved with an open and honest conversation. You can also report the situation to your workplace´s health and safety representative or shop steward, who represents workers’ belonging to a union.
If you belong to a union, you can ask for advice and help for free from your own union. Free counseling is also provided by employee rights hotline. Feel free to seek advice even if you are unsure whether or not you are being mistreated.
If you feel that you have been a victim of criminal misconduct, contact the Victim Support Finland. You can make contact anonymously and even if you are not sure if your rights have been violated. The counseling service is free for everyone.
If for some reason things don’t work out in the workplace, don’t face them alone. No one can help you if you don’t talk about your situation to anybody.
If the problems cannot be solved
You can change jobs in the field mentioned in your residence permit. If you decide to change jobs, check the notice period and other conditions in the employment contract. Also, keep in mind that your livelihood cannot be interrupted for very long.
If you experience serious misconduct in the workplace, such as rip-off or human trafficking, you can change jobs, even if your residence permit is limited to a certain job. First, contact the Victim Support System. If you are a victim of human trafficking, you can obtain a temporary residence permit that includes the right to work.
