ABSTRACT
The existing literature has largely investigated the relationship between organised labour and outsiders, claiming that trade unions are likely to hinder measures that target disadvantaged workers. As their rank-and-file is mostly composed of insiders, they would prefer to promote the interests of those employed in core economic sectors, which show good and stable working conditions. This chapter aims to test the insider–outsider theory, in the cases of the Argentinean and Uruguayan main labour organisations. From the early 2000s, the two Latin American countries experienced social policy expansion that enlarged social protection coverage and also included large percentages of unemployed and informal workers. With a focus on pensions, the results show that both unions – despite having different membership – supported the adoption of inclusive policies. In particular, the shrinking gap between insiders and outsiders is deemed to be responsible for labour organisations’ choices.
