Overall climate of labour relations

The overall climate of labour relations can only be described as good, at least in
comparison to neighbouring countries. Traditionally, there has always been
a strong desire on both sides of the negotiating table to reach a compromise,
and while harsh words are often heard, serious strikes or cases of widespread
industrial unrest are rare. Partly as a result of this history of repeated
compromise; German employment relationships are regulated by a wealth of
statutory and extra-statutory instruments, trade union and similar agreements,
and by individual agreements reached on the shop floor.

Most of these regulations and provisions are highly specific and very detailed. Broadly,
German labour law applies to all employment relationships, although there are
exceptions to ease the lot of small businesses.