Are strikes still a tool for union action? A qualitative investigation into the private sector in Quebec, Canada

Abstract

Based on an empirical study conducted with union representatives working in the private sector in Quebec (Canada), this article analyses how union representatives perceive strikes. The analysis of the interviews primarily shows that union representatives have strongly integrated the current constraints related to striking, whether they be of an economic, institutional or organizational nature or relating to the dynamics of mobilization involved therein. Second, it emphasizes that, in spite of the union representatives’ more ambiguous relationship with striking, strikes are still an important tool in the repertoire of union action. Lastly, it highlights the various changes in the way this union practice is implemented.

Retooling militancy: Labour revitalization and fixed‐duration strikes

“…Second, this study suggests that union leaders can strategically adapt, or retool, militant tactics to more effectively confront employer power. A major contribution of this study is the identification and analysis of fixed‐duration strikes as a strategic adaptation of labour militancy in response to increased firm resistance, institutional challenges and the costs imposed by indefinite work stoppages (Dribbusch, 2007; Martin and Dixon, 2010; Hennebert and Faulkner, 2020). While this study does not compare cases of successful fixed‐duration strikes with those of indefinite work stoppages or unsuccessful fixed‐duration strikes, somewhat constraining the causal findings advanced here, it further illustrates how unions are retooling the strike.…”

Striking to Renew: Basque Unions’ Organizing Strategies and Use of the Strike‐Fund

“…A 'deep organizing' strategy does not simply seek to mobilize workers in order to 'create an illusion of strength', but rather as a step in the more cohesive and dynamic formation of a union model (McAlevey 2016: 206-7) in a context of fiscal austerity, labour market deregulation and industrial restructuring. In that sense, it goes beyond immediate interests and seeks to renew the union through actively preparing the workforce for of engaging into industrial action (Harcourt et al 2013;Hennebert and Faulkner 2020;Hodder et al 2017) Or in other words, understanding strikes as a necessary moment in the empowerment of the working class poses the strategic question of how to transform an organization in order to effectively do so. This more syndicalist way of engaging with collective bargaining is expressed in, among other things, significantly higher membership rates, signing good collective agreements or in their capacity to 'shield' collective agreements from the last labour reforms.…”