What does the term 'collective bargaining' refer to?

The term 'collective bargaining' specifically refers to the process of negotiations between employers and a group of employees, often represented by a labor union. This process aims to establish mutual agreements regarding various employment-related issues such as wages, working conditions, benefits, hours of work, and other terms of employment.

The importance of collective bargaining lies in its role in giving employees a voice in the workplace and ensuring that their rights and interests are represented through organized representation. The presence of a group of employees allows for a more balanced negotiation process compared to individual negotiations, which can often favor the employer.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of collective bargaining. While negotiations between an employer and an employee may occur in various contexts, it does not encompass the organized and collective aspect central to the process. Discussions on workplace safety, while important, are only one component of broader negotiations. Similarly, negotiations related to public policy do not directly relate to the employer-employee relationship in the context of collective bargaining. Therefore, the reference to a group of employees in the correct answer highlights the collective nature of this negotiation process, distinguishing it from other types of discussions that may occur in the workplace.