The relation between participation, influence and trust in employment relations at local level
Kristin Alsos, Fafo Institute for Labour and Social Research, Oslo
Sissel C. Trygstad, Fafo Institute for Labour and Social Research, Oslo
Employee participation and cooperation at company level play a pivotal role in the Norwegian labour market model. These rights are embedded both in statutory law and in national and industry level collective agreements. In sum, these provide both individual and collective co-determination rights at company level. In general, the organized parts of the Norwegian labour marked are characterized by well-established channels for voice through union representatives, and a climate of co-operation and trust. It is believed that the model promotes efficiency and productiveness.
In a recent study (Alsos & Trygstad 2019) we identified a participation gap: 29 percent of local TU reps did not take part in formal or informal cooperation at local level, even though this is granted by collective agreement. In this paper we take a closer look at this group of TU reps, and compare them with those who do participate. We discuss how formal and informal participation affect the TU reps’ experienced influence over decisions related to the work place. Furthermore, is there a correlation between TU reps’ experienced influence and trust between the local industrial parties? Such correlation may be seen as a challenge to the Norwegian labour market model.
The analyses are based on a survey among TU reps at company level within several industries in the private sector; namely manufacturing, construction, hotels & restaurants and retail trade. We also conducted in-depth interviews among management and TU reps at company level in more than 30 companies of different size, and in the same industries as covered by the survey.
