A new emerging trend? Cross border trade union mergers

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this editorial is to examine moves towards cross border trade union mergers.

Design/methodology/approach

This editorial outlines the reasons why trade unions see the need to act outside their nation state boundaries.

Findings

In the globalised economy if trade unions are to defend and advance the living standards of their members they cannot confine their activities to their national labour markets. Currently, trade unions attempt to do this via multi‐lateral link ups via Global Trade Union Federations and by developing links with their sister unions in other countries. A new mechanism is now being developed by trade unions to counter balance the economic strength of multi‐nationals, namely cross border trade union mergers.

Originality/value

The editorial offers insights into the reasons for, and gives examples, for the emerging trend of the movement towards cross border trade union mergers.

Citation

Gennard, J. (2009), "A new emerging trend? Cross border trade union mergers", Employee Relations, Vol. 31 No. 1, pp. 5-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425450910916788