Raising the voice of labour

Lethbridge, Jane (2007) Raising the voice of labour. In: The Politics of Everyday Life in Global Politics, 48th Annual International Studies Association Convention, 28 Feb - 3 Mar 2007, Chicago, US. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

In 2006, for the first time at the International Studies Association Convention, there were three sessions on labour issues. The lack of a voice for labour in international studies is striking. Even in studies of social movements, there is a muted acknowledgement of the role of trade unions.

The socio-economic security of labour makes a major contribution to overall security concerns, yet it is not widely recognised. However, there are signs that multi-lateral agencies are beginning to recognise the importance of labour standards. The International Finance Corporation recently introduced core labour standards for companies receiving its loans. An analysis of some World Bank and other multilateral agency documents shows that there are two major approaches to labour issues emerging in international policy: labour standards and workers involvement in public services.

This paper analyses and reflects on a research project, which was a partnership between the International Labour Office and an international trade union, Public Services International. This set out to examine the impact of policies of liberalisation and privatisation on public sector workers. The paper looks at the process of gathering and analysing data, the involvement of trade unions in this process and the responsibilities and issues that have emerged. The results contribute to a growing body of evidence on how international policies impact on workers.

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