Trace Unions Flashcards
What is a trade union?
continuous association made up of primary wage earners who use their collective labour power mainly to improve their wages and working conditions.
What are current challenges faced by trace unions?
- economic uncertainty
- informal economy
- political interference
What are the strengths of Caribbean unions?
• Solidarity – unity among workers, helping provide protection and support against unfair labor practices and exploitation.
• Political Influence - with this type of influence some unions in the Caribbean help shape politics and legislation to better workers’ rights and broader society.
• Advocacy for Workers’ Rights - Advocating for better working environments, wages and unfair treatment towards workers from organizations.
What are the weaknesses of Caribbean unions?
• Limited Resources – Many Caribbean unions face resource constraints, including limited funding, staffing, and organized capacity. This can impede their ability to provide services, support and representation to members as well as to invest in strategic initiatives and campaigns.
• Dependency on Government - Some Caribbean unions have historical been closely aligned with political parties or government, leading to concerns about co-optation, dependency and conflict of interest. This dependency can undermine the autonomy and independence of unions and limit their effectiveness in representing workers’ interest.
• Communication and Outreach - Communication gaps and limited outreach efforts can hinder unions’ ability to engage with and mobilize workers, particularly in remote or
marginalized communities. Weak communication strategies may impede union recruitment, education and mobilization efforts, reducing their impact and influence.
List some initiatives for union revitalization?
• Diversifying membership and expanding into new sectors
• Building alliances (collaborating with other groups)
• Investing in education and training programs
• Embracing technology and innovation
