Several strategic variables are open to unions as they fight for their survival and position in society. Each of these strategic variables facing unions is discussed and summarized in the table given below:
Examples of the Economic Objectives of Unions
Economic issues – bread and butter
| Category | Example |
| Wages | United Auto Workers bargaining with Ford for a 6 percent annual increase for three years |
| Benefits | Teamsters asking for full family health coverage to be paid b) employer |
| Seniority | Steelworkers negotiating with USX to give priority to longer tenure employees in awarding overtime hours |
| Working Conditions | Airline Pilots Association working out an agreement with Unite Airlines on the maximum number of nights away from home |
| Security | UAW agreeing to two-tiered wage structure in return for no-layoff clauses |
Political Issues of Unions
| Category | Example |
| Political Endorsements | AFLC1O endorsement of Bill Clinton in the 1992 and 1996 presidential elections |
| Political Action Committees (PACs) | Contribution of campaign funds to local, state, and national candidates |
| Endorsement or Opposition to Government Policies | During the Vietnam War era, certain unions supported, while others opposed, the war |
| Endorsement of Certain Political Stances | The American Federation of Teachers encouraged defense cuts and more money for education |
You May Like Also: