All components of globalization have increased dramatically since the 1970s. Many companies in the U.S. now do business abroad, invest abroad, and have relocated facilities abroad. Given the extent of this corporate internationalization, why haven't unions followed suit to the same degree? In what ways have unions begun to collaborate?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

There are significant barriers to transnational labor collaboration and unionization including language barriers, cultural and religious differences, and ideological differences regarding the role of workers and unions in society. As well, there are not yet strong interconnected social networks for unions and workers to share knowledge and strategies. Unions may fear losing domestic autonomy and control over their own domestic agendas. There are often significant legal barriers to cross-national unionization and collaboration between unions. Even union structure and goals differ widely throughout the world as demonstrated by the more social movement agenda of, say, French unions compared to the practical, business union model of U.S. unions. Finally, there is strong employer resistance to international unionization.
The emphasis on international collaboration between unions has been on international solidarity campaigns in which union workers from one country show support for union workers in another country. They may, for example, contribute financial or public support to their cause. Global union federations are becoming increasingly successful in getting multinational corporations to sign international agreements to respect workers' rights to collective bargaining and minimum wage and safety standards. In addition, unions have been increasingly successful in using the Internet and social media as a way to apply public pressure to businesses throughout the world.