Betriebsrat — Works Council in the Company

What is a Betriebsrat?

Betriebsrat (works council) is a body of representatives elected by employees to represent their interests to the employer.

When can it be established?

• Company has minimum 5 permanent employees
• At least 3 employees must be eligible (>6 months in company)

How many people in the council?

What does Betriebsrat do?

Has co-determination on:
- Working hours (schedule, breaks, overtime)
- Leave (vacation planning)
- Work regulations
- Dismissals (must be informed)
- Hiring new employees
- Training

Protects workers:
- During dismissals
- When work conditions change
- Against discrimination

How to establish Betriebsrat?

1. Gather 3+ interested employees
2. Call a meeting — announce it in the company
3. Select an electoral committee (Wahlvorstand)
4. Conduct elections — secret ballot
5. Announce results

Protection of council members

• Cannot be dismissed (special legal protection)
• Time spent on council activities is paid
• Employer must provide workspace

When should you contact Betriebsrat?

• Problems with supervisor
• Unfair treatment
• Questions about worker rights
• Planned layoffs in company
• Changes in work organization

Your rights

As an employee you can:
- Vote in elections (after 3 months in company)
- Candidate (after 6 months)
- Consult with council during work hours

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.