Public service unions are closely involved in industrial relations in
France and receive partial public funding. The social dialogue system is
characterised by “concertation”, i.e., the obligation for consultation
with civil service unions before any decisions are taken. However,
unions do not have the right to initiate negotiations on collective
agreements. Collective bargaining is centralised at the national level;
the negotiations over wage increases take place at the central level,
within budgetary limits determined by the Ministry of Finance. The
employment framework and the right to strike/minimum service are
also negotiated centrally, whereas bonuses, work conditions, the code
of conduct, the introduction of new management tools and
government restructuring involve delegated levels as well. Most public
employees are granted the right to unionise and strike, except when
the latter is in relation to particular motives.