Strike and lockout – what does industrial action mean?

Industrial action is the overall term for a labour dispute between employees and employers. It can include a strike, a lockout, or both. Industrial action typically arises when the parties cannot agree on a new collective agreement.

A strike means employees stop working, to put pressure on the employer during negotiations. You do not receive salary from your employer during a strike. Strikes are announced by your union or central organisation.

A lockout means the employer sends employees home and prevents them from working. It is the employer’s response to a strike or part of a broader industrial action. You do not receive salary during a lockout.

The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) is Pharmadanmark’s central organisation and the joint body for academic unions. When industrial action is announced, it is coordinated collectively to maximise pressure on employers and achieve the greatest possible impact.

It would be considered unfair dismissal if you are dismissed because you have been selected to participate in a strike.

No. You do not receive salary from your employer, as your employment is considered suspended during the period of industrial action.

No. You cannot receive unemployment benefits from your unemployment insurance fund during industrial action.

Yes, in principle. However, you must not take on competing work or work affected by industrial action. Taking a second job instead of participating in the strike may affect your eligibility for conflict support, such as conflict loans or reduced membership fees.

No. If you are called on strike, you must not perform any work – regardless of location or type of work – unless you are covered by an exemption.

If your holiday begins before industrial action starts, you can take the full planned leave. After your holiday, you will join the industrial action if it is still ongoing. Be aware that your employer is not expected to pay salary during the days affected by the strike, as your employment is suspended.

If your holiday has not started before industrial action begins, you are prevented from taking leave.

No. You do not accrue holiday, as your employment is suspended.

No.

Your parental benefits, leave and plan are generally unaffected by industrial action. However, your right to salary during leave may be affected, as your employment is suspended and your employer is not obliged to pay salary during this period.

You are allowed to be on sick leave and/or care for a sick child during industrial action.

If you are on long-term sick leave, you will not receive salary from your employer during industrial action, as your employment is suspended.