Question

In the United States, participation in unions has steadily declined in the private sector but in the public sector, it has increased. In this unit's discussion boards, comment on the reasons for this.

• Is there no longer a need for union representation in companies? Is the decline simply because the needs of the worker have changed? Have basic needs been met and therefore, the things that the union offers are no longer burning issues for many (most) employees in the private sector?

• Why is union representation rising in the public sector (education, government, service jobs)? Are the needs different in these professions? Are the protections offered with a union contract of greater concern with these professions now?

What might get you to consider joining a union if given the choice? What conditions would have to exist and why might you become interested?

Answer 1

A) Reasons for decrease in Unions in private sector are -

1. Changing in the composition of jobs. Industries like manufacturing are loosing jobs while healthcare and hospitality industry are creating more jobs.

2. Certain laws have made it difficult to join the unions like "Right to Work".

3. Also unions make it harder for companies to grow.

B) The need of unions is certainly there but the above mentioned reasons have reduced it a lot. The government is also forming policies to increase pay making it easier for employees.

C) The needs of employees are same but government policies are making it easier for them.

D) The jobs in public sector have increased over the time. Thus unionization rate has not affected much here.

Infrastructure of public sector cannot be relocated that easily. Also outsourcing can't be done. This giving their employees an upper hand to bargain.

E) The most important reason to join a union is to safeguard your rights as an employee.

Proper Wage.

Job security.

Flexibility.

These are the key reasons to consider to join an employee union. The union makes sure that you don't get harassed by the employer.

If the above reasons are secured either by employer or government regulations than you might not feel to join a union.