The legal set--up of industrial relations in Germany is based on what one could call a dual model of workers' representation. On the one hand, there are trade unions; on the other hand, there are works councils to represent workers' interests. It may be fair to say that the dual model of workers' representation by trade unions and elected workers' representatives work well for Germany. Historically, the model has deep roots. Providing workers with an equal say and the idea of a partnership between employer and workforce may also be in line ...