Trade union responses to a changing environment

Abstract

The article reports a study of trade union strategies in four sectors (Electronics, Food Manufacturing, Banking, and Central Administration) in five countries (Denmark, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom). The data suggests a higher degree of convergence across sectors and countries than expected from a discussion of the literature. However, there are variations which are explained by reference to both sectoral and cultural variables. The union strategies identified are consistent with models identified in the literature in emphasising a more collaborative approach to employer relations, and a balance between industrial and political activities, but in other respects there are important differences.