Dimensions of internationalism and the politics of the labour movement: Understanding the political and organisational aspects of labour networking and co-ordination

摘要

Purpose - Much is being claimed in terms of new forms of trade union networking and co-ordination atrnthe international level during the past two decades. However, there is a need to ground these views inrnterms of the reality and contexts of trade union activity. This article seeks to argue that tension withinrnthe different modes of international labour activity is nothing new. In fact, political and organisationalrndifferences in terms of the practices and strategies of the labour movement have been salient features ofrntrade unionism for over a century. The article will map the interest in networking as a form of labourrnco-ordination and the question of the emergence of competing international models of network-basedrntrade union action.rnDesign/methodology/approach - The paper is based on a general and literature review of therndebates on labour internationalism supported by insights gained from a variety of research initiatives.rnFindings - As noted by a variety of authors, the reality is that there are assorted types of global andrninternational movements within trade unionism, which are based on four dimensions in terms of specificrnsectoral, ideological, organisational and national factors. There is a need is to understand the tensionsrnbetween these models, and not just work from a "vertical" view of power based on hierarchies and levels.rnResearch limitations/implications - The paper is mainly a critical review of debates andrndiscussions.rnPractical implications - Network-based initiatives should not just be contrasted with bureaucracyrnper se, but be understood in terms of distinct initiatives, meanings and politics. In fact, one could seernthe signs of emerging "managerialist" modes of labour internationalism.rnSocial implications - New forms of trade union and worker representation in a global context arernengaging with social and political issues - they are engaging with a range of social and organisationalrnactivities such as those of non-government organisations. These represent an important debate on thernway work-related issues are organised around.rnOriginality/value - The paper indicates how the question of labour networking is a significantrnacademic discussion and needs to be seen from different perspectives.