Collective Bargaining in America: Addressing Challenges and Charting the Future
Collective Bargaining in America: Addressing Challenges and Charting the Future Collective bargaining is a cornerstone of workplace democracy, but it is not without its challenges. In the face of changing economic realities, technological advancements, and shifting workforce demographics, both unions and employers must navigate complex terrain to achieve successful outcomes. This chapter delves into the evolving challenges of collective bargaining in America and explores innovative strategies to address these issues, illustrated by real-world examples and expert insights. Modern Challenges in Collective Bargaining The Gig Economy and Non-Traditional Work Arrangements The rise of gig work and freelance arrangements has disrupted traditional labor relations. Many gig workers are classified as independent contractors, excluding them from collective bargaining rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Example : In 2021, gig workers for ride-share companies like Uber...