Akademik

   Trade unions were founded in the 1860s in Amster dam, first by printers (in 1861) and then diamond cutters (1866). In 1869, a Dutch branch of the first International Workers Association (1860–1872) was established. Labor was organized along the same lines as the political parties, namely, on the basis of religious or po litical affiliation: Roman Catholic, Protestant, and socialist or com munist. At the beginning of the 20th century, syndicalism also played a role. Since the end of World WarII, the “recognized” labor unions have been partners in the regular consultations with employer organi zations and the government in agreements on the conditions of em ployment, adopting collective agreements on working hours and wages, among other topics.

   See also KOK, Wim (WILLEM) (1938– ); Labor movement; Nationaalarbeids secretariaat; SOCIAAL-ECONOMISCHE RAAD (SER).