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About local collective agreements
Last changed: 24 June 2025
Local collective agreements are agreements between the employer and the trade unions that apply specifically to our workplace. They are based on national collective agreements but are adapted to our specific conditions and needs. These agreements may concern, for example, working hours, compensation, leave, or other terms of employment.
Starting in 2025, a review of our local collective agreements is being carried out — a process that will continue for several years.
During 2025, the following agreements are being reviewed:
- Kontorsarbetstidsavtalet (The Office working hours agreement)
- Läraravtalet (The Teachers' working hours agreement)
- Avtalet för tjänsteresa och förrättning (The Business travel agreement)
In connection with this review, SLU has terminated the former Swedish Board of Fisheries’ local agreement on working hours and compensation for business travel. That agreement will remain in effect until 31 January 2026.
The aim is for the new local collective agreements to come into effect on 1 February 2026.
The agreement process towards a new collective agreement
In general, a negotiation process includes the following phases:
1. Preparation phase
The employer carries out extensive preparatory work, often together with representatives from different parts of the organisation who contribute background material. Dialogue with the trade unions also takes place during this phase.
2. Negotiation phase
When negotiations begin, the employer invites the three trade union representatives with collective agreement rights (the chairs of Saco, ST, and SEKO) to negotiate the new local collective agreements. During this phase, negotiation confidentiality applies.
3. Implementation phase
Once the agreements have been reached, their content is communicated, HR systems are updated, and any new routines or regulations are implemented in the organisation.
Parties to an agreement process
There are two parties involved in a collective agreement process: the employer and the trade unions. Each part has its own roles and responsibilities.
The employer:
- Prepares the case for negotiation
- Acts as the negotiating party vis-à-vis the unions
- Responsible for informing the organisation about the new agreements
The trade unions:
- Represent their members
- Act as the negotiating part vis-à-vis the employer
The local collective agreements at SLU
Collective agreements will not be translated in order to prevent misunderstanding. Please talk to the HR-specialists or your manager if you have questions.