Work and Trade Unions

Despite massive scepticism towards trade unions, they have nevertheless existed in the US since the end of the 18th century. Unions grew during the Depression in the 1930’s as unemployment rates increased. Similarly, the years around the Second World War led to union growth. In other periods, union development has been slow.

In the second half of the last century, membership dropped. One reason might be the growth of the service sector and the decline of manufacturing industries, where the traditional stronghold of the unions has been. More importantly, Americans prefer little or no interference in personal matters such as career choice and movement, examples being negotiating salary, benefits, working hours and job description. While Europeans tend to stay in the same job for their entire working lifetime to ensure job-security, stability, and seniority benefits, American are restless.

Changing jobs and moving across the country are often considered exciting and positive challenges to those interested in improving their career opportunities. In fact, most Americans who relocate do so due to the demands of their career.

Americans disagree on the need for trade unions. Some people agree that union membership gives the workers a chance to be heard and to improve conditions by offering a social network and a feeling of belonging, security and pride.

Nevertheless, only 12.4% of the labor force are union members. Most people reject unions for slowing down business, hence reducing their own personal profit.