The field of labour relations studies the relationship between management and workers, particularly workers represented by a union. Labour relations can take place on many levels, such as the "shop-floor", the regional level, and the national level. The distribution of power amongst these levels can greatly shape the way an economy functions.

Labour relations is the study and practice of managing unionized employment situations. In academia, labour relations is frequently a subarea within industrial relations, though scholars from many disciplines--including economics, sociology, history, law, and political science; also study labour unions and labour movements. In practice, labour relations is frequently a subarea within human resource management. Courses in labour relations typically cover labour history, labour law, union organizing, bargaining, contract administration, and important contemporary topics