Most workplaces will have shop steward elections at the beginning of 2026.

Shop Steward elections in public sector

The current three-year term ends on 31 July 2026. Shop stewards in municipalities represent members belonging to OAJ and JUKO-affiliated trade unions in local negotiations concerning collective agreements and terms of employment.

Elections for the next three-year term 1.8.2026–31.7.2029 will be held in spring 2026.

You can get more information about elections in your municipality and how to become a candidate from your chief shop steward or your local association.

Shop steward elections in the private sector

Shop stewards are elected in most organisations for a three-year term 1.8.2026–31.7.2029. There might be exceptions.

Members of OAJ elect a shop steward from among themselves. The shop steward must work for the educational institution and be familiar with collective agreements, employment regulations and workplace practices.

The shop steward represents members of OAJ at the workplace.

Shop stewards are elected either at an election meeting or in a separate election. The election is most often organized by the current shop steward.

The election of a shop steward must be announced well in advance so that all members working for the employer are aware of the upcoming election. Everyone must have an opportunity to vote.

The election result must be recorded in official minutes.

All members employed by the employer are also entitled to nominate candidates.