Communication Workers Union (United Kingdom)

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) is a trade union in the United Kingdom representing workers in the postal, telecommunications, information technology, and financial services industries. It is one of the largest unions in the UK, with a membership encompassing employees at major companies such as Royal Mail, BT, and Vodafone, as well as smaller, independent firms.

The CWU's primary objectives are to protect and improve the pay, terms, and conditions of its members. This is achieved through collective bargaining with employers, campaigning on workplace issues, and providing legal and welfare support to members. The union also advocates for broader social and economic justice, including fair employment practices and access to public services.

Historically, the CWU has played a significant role in shaping the UK's industrial relations landscape, particularly in the postal and telecommunications sectors. It has been involved in numerous industrial disputes and campaigns related to issues such as pay, job security, and privatization. The union actively engages with policymakers and government bodies to influence legislation and regulations affecting its members and the industries in which they work.

The CWU is affiliated with the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the national trade union centre in the UK. It also maintains international links with other trade unions and organizations representing communications workers worldwide. The union's structure consists of branches and regions, which represent members at the local and regional levels. National officials and committees are responsible for overall policy and strategy.