Work

Will they rise again? Four scenarios for the future of trade unions

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: With rising consumer prices, tight labour markets, a resurgence in labour militancy, and a new post-Covid appreciation of the role of government and market regulation, the conditions for renewed union growth seem favourable. But unions have to come from far. Across the OECD, unions have lost members and power, young people increasingly stay away from unions and labour markets have thoroughly changed from what they were. How likely, then, is a new era for trade unions? This article explores four scenarios for the future of trade unions – marginalization, dualism, substitution and revitalization – each grounded in a few assumptions about the environment and behaviour of unions. Drawing on data and research from 12 OECD member states, the article explores middle range theories for each scenario and weighs arguments pro and contra its likelihood. It concludes with a set of critical propositions about the future of trade unions and research about the future.

Source: Economic and Industrial Democracy

DOI: 10.1177/0143831x231178850

Author: Jelle Visser

Institution: University of Amsterdam

Language: English

Topic: Labor Movements and Unions

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,250