Why do workers organise into unions?

[nbm]

Why do workers join a trade union?

[luttu]

1. To oppose management—Workers often join unions in order to have a method of collectively resisting action of management. When employers cut wages or pay low wages; when working conditions are unsafe or too unpleasant; or when managers interfere in workers personal lives, workers may resist by joining unions. Through the union workers may petition management for changes and, if unsuccessful, they may resort to a concerted work stoppage—a strike.
2. To participate in union activities-Workers may join unions to obtain certain health or insurance benefits, to participate in educational programmes", Or to learn about their own business and occupation. They may also join to engage in social or community activities.
3. To exercise leadership—Some workers join unions as an outlet for their own ambitions. They may aspire to leadership and find that the union offers a convenient vehicle. They may hope to get ahead by obtaining an office of the union.
4. To fall in line with others—Many workers join unions simply because other workers urge them to do so. They may be made to feel that they are traitors if they do not join.
5. To get employment-Sometimes workers join a union because it is a precondition to their getting employment. This is known as the 'closed shop' system and was prevalent in America till 1947 when it was outlawed.