Trade union power and influence on policy and legislation in the European Union

Abstract

The European intention project has united Europe economically and politically to the extent that we now speak of the Europeanisation effect that has also extended to industrial relations. Within this context trade unions in Europe have faced new challenges with changes affecting their roles and functions that ultimately determine their power and influence over policy and legislation at national and European level. This dissertation looks into the changes brought about by Europeanisation and the effects that this has had over the powers and m1luences of trade unions in Europe. The dissertation considers the historic struggle of the trade union movement in building the role of trade unions as strong social movements an European society, influencing the political developments of each European country. Subsequently the Europeanisation process leading to the creation of a European Trade Union Confederation, European social dialogue, and numerous industrial relations structures at the European level are highlighted. The policies and legislation of the European Union relating to trade unions and their interests are assessed, whilst the relationship between the European social partners and the results of this relationship are highlighted. Furthermore considerations on the present issues and the future of European industrial relations are also debated. The Maltese perspective is noted in light of Malta's accession to the European Union and the effects brought about to the role and function of the Maltese trade union movement within an enlarged Europe due to Malta's new participation in the European Union decision making mechanisms. Ultimately the dissertation aims to discuss the gains and losses for the European trade union movement's power and influence over European policy and legislation within the context of Europeanisation of industrial relations. It proposes possibilities for more effective developments that may be adopted by the European trade union movement and tampers with the analysis of the power and influence of Maltese trade unions following Malta's accession to the European Union.