About the IER

The Institute of Employment Rights is a think tank for the trade union movement and a registered charity.

The IER exists to inform the debate around trade union rights and labour law by providing information, critical analysis, and policy ideas through our network of academics, researchers and lawyers.

We were established in February 1989 as an independent organisation to act as a focal point for the spread of new ideas in the field of labour law. In 1994 the Institute became a registered charity.

We hope to provide the labour movement with the information and history needed to develop an alternative and more equitable framework of labour law.

Lord John Hendy QC, Chair of the IER

In this section

Who we are

Our staff, officers, executive committee and members.

Our work

An overview of the work the IER conducts and the projects we undertake.

Our history

The IER's history over the last three decades since its establishment.

Annual reports

Our annual reports since 2008.

Using this website

Help on getting the most out of the IER website

Subscribe to the Institute

Get full access to our library and resources

What they say about us

  • The Institute of Employment Rights has worked tirelessly for a legal system that protects working people in the workplace. Working people should not be restricted by legislation but rather supported by legislation. Repeatedly the Institute has been at the forefront of campaigning to protect workers' rights and at the forefront of radical interpretation of the law. Their efforts should be commended by all.

    Len McCluskey, General Secretary, Unite the Union

  • The TUC has a long and fruitful association with the IER. Working together we’ve built a strong case for decent employment and trade union rights. We’ve won the argument. Now we need to win the campaign.” The IER offer material that enables trade unions to push forward with their own just and equitable workplace agenda.

    Frances O'Grady, General Secretary, TUC

  • The IER brings together front line trade unionists and the leading experts to give the best possible critique of employment law and the Coalition Government.

    Dave Prentis, General Secretary, Unison