Development NGOs and Labor Unions: Terms of Engagement
Edited by Deborah Eade and Alan Leather
Development NGOs and labor unions have much to gain from collaborating in the pursuit of a social justice and rights agenda, yet the two sectors have traditionally tended to operate independently of one another. The 'another world is possible' movement; a continuing series of anti-globalization protests; and conflicting views on core labor standards, corporate codes of conduct, and the WTO have placed civil society organizations at the center of public debates on global governance. While NGOs and unions will naturally pursue diverse strategies and tactics, neither sector can afford to go it alone. The essays collected in this volume elucidate some of the underlying tensions between trade unions and NGOs and illustrate the scope for constructive and respectful dialogue - and potential partnership - between them. Alan Leather is Deputy Secretary General of Public Services International (PSI).
© Kumarian Press Inc. 2005.
ISBN 1 56549 196 3
All rights reserved.
‘This book presents a frank and critical analysis of the differences in ideology, organization and mode of operation as well as of shared goals, common interests and cooperation between the two major forces of global society. It will be of interest to all committed to social justice in world development.’
Dharam Ghai, Former Director, UNRISD; Adviser, International Labour Office
‘The authors address the new, sometimes difficult, issues raised by the relationship between organized labor, with its longstanding structures and traditions, and the emerging world of independent social movements. This collection should be of significant value to policy makers, activists, and academics.’
Stephen F Diamond, Associate Professor of Law, Santa Clara University