In Denmark, trade unions and unemployment insurance play an important role in protecting employees’ rights and providing financial security. Trade unions can offer legal support, guidance, and assistance in negotiating your salary and working conditions. Unemployment insurance, on the other hand, provides income security when your contract expires — but it is voluntary and requires membership in an unemployment insurance fund (known as an a-kasse).
A trade union can provide you with employment-related legal support and guidance you may need. At the university, there are union representatives who will support and negotiate on your behalf to secure you the best possible salary level and working conditions. Read more about trade unions in Denmark here, and read more about union representatives here.
In Denmark, insurance against unemployment is voluntary. If you want to be insured against unemployment, you must apply for admission into an unemployment insurance fund (a-kasse).
However, please read this guide from International Staff Office before you sign up with an a-kasse. Especially non-EU citizens may have difficulty to use the unemployment insurance system, since you may not be eligible for unemployment benefits.
