ABSTRACT
Throughout the world, the features that for a long time have characterized industrial relations appear to be undergoing a radical change. Inter¬nationalization of capital, intensified global competition, technological change, industrial restructuring, decentralized employment relations and the introduction of flexible production systems are all examples of external challenges that trade unions have been facing for the past several years (Hyman, 1994; Kochan, Katz, and McKersie, 1986; Visser, 1994). These environmental changes have been accompanied by declines in several sectors within the manufacturing industry while a major expansion has occurred in the service sector. Simultaneously, the traditional distinctions between different industry sectors and between blue- and white-collar work have been loosened. Sectorial decline, unemployment, and blurred jurisdictional boundaries have led to eroded recruitment potentials and decreasing membership rates for many unions.
