The Effects of Globalization on Union Membership Free Essay Example, 1750 words

The term globalization is now occupying center stage in contemporary economic, social and political discourse. It is being projected as a phenomenon which has grave portents for the continued existence of the trade union movement and it is, therefore, necessary that the members of trade unions, including the rank and file, have a clear appreciation of its meaning and implications. The term has only recently been popularized, and there is a sense that the phenomenon has suddenly become an issue in academic, intellectual and popular discourse. It may well be true to say that prior to the 1990s, Caribbean trade unionists would not have focused significantly on globalization as a phenomenon in their teachings or even in their strategizing and planning on behalf of their membership. Yet, to the extent that emphasis was placed on explaining the economic history of the region, and of the world, in locating the birth and struggles of the trade union movement for existence, the emphasis wou ld have been placed on describing the economic foundations of globalization. Globalization is a creature of the thinkers, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and policymakers of the dominant countries of the world. We will write a custom essay sample on The Effects of Globalization on Union Membership or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now Much effort has been expended in developing a paradigm shift, in forcing the mass of people into observing the reality of their existence from an alternative viewpoint. Few now see socialism as a path for human development, and most are convinced that the market is the mechanism for advancement. Underdevelopment in former colonial territories can no longer be blamed on the colonial masters but must be seen as the fault of the colonials, who no longer require aid and assistance. The demography of labor unions is far and widespread. The impact of liberalization on employment and wages are massive. A study in Indonesia and Chile reveals this phenomenon. This study divides the study period into two: the period 1991 to 1996 which is the reform period, and the period 1997 to 2000 which is called the crisis period. 1997 marks the genesis of the crisis currently afflicting the Zimbabwean economy.