Are labor unions really necessary to protect worker rights?

I believe they are important.

The problem is that labor unions come at cost they are not free services.

In some countries like middle east the ministry of labor usually passes certain laws to protect employees.although they might be biast but it is a positive step.

Labor unions came to existence in protest against exploitary capitalism and feudal system in19th Century and became popular with Russian / French revolutions. They proven creating justice to employees and ensuring employees rights.

Today countries have laws to protect employees and ensure minimum wages. Unions are necessary till the country matures in establishing these laws and protect employees rights.

Corruption and political influence in labor unions create hassles in the relationship than ensuring justice to both employees and employers. In this perspective, unions are a mess...!!

Yes, certainly it should be done.

If the company is serious about the labour right then no union is necessary. But in some cases management just think about money and the union is required to overcome the right of labour. I could only say that this is diplomatic question.

Yes, I beleive so.

I think no, if the company policy is as per labor law and manegement is highly educated.

Yes,  It is important for workers to have their own unions to protect their rights.believe that unions play an important role in building a good relationship with their compannies and to define the workers rights 

not necessary .......these are just for black mailing.

Certainly YES. It plays an important role as a mediator between the employer & the employee. This ensures the protection of employees’ right & at the same time see to that the employer is not deprived or duped by the employee (very few labor union are concerned about the employer). If in proper hands or if a deserving person chairs the union leader council, the labor union proves to be advantageous leading to fair decision in case of any conflict arising between both parties.

I don't know about protection but they are there to act as broker/ middle man within the general framework and should the relationship between the employer and employee take a sour turn.