Interregional trade union councils: transnational orientation and interest intermediation of trade unions

Abstract

"Interregional Trade Union Councils represent a specific form of transnational trade union co-operation. An Interregional Trade Union Council (IRTUC) is both a collective actor and a mode of interaction. As collective actors, it is composed of trade unions in a cross-border region. As mode of interaction, it structures the co-operation between these trade unions. By applying an institutionalist framework, it is shown that IRTUCs fulfil two functions. They contribute to a common orientation of trade unionists from different nation states and represent the interests of the employees of the region. As far as the functions of orientation and interest intermediation are concerned, IRTUCs are directed at the transnational areas of the cross-border region and the European Union. However, the co-operation between the trade unions in the cross-border region shows a moderate degree of transnationalisation. The trade unions involved keep their autonomy and their capacity for collective action within the IRTUC is restricted." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Bähr, H. & Albrecht, M. (2014): Interregionale Gewerkschaftsräte: Transnationale Orientierung und Interessenvermittlung von Gewerkschaften. In: Industrielle Beziehungen, Vol. 21, No. 3, p. 300-321. DOI:10.1688/IndB-2014-03-Baehr