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Integrating direct employee voice within the framework of worker representation: The role of an Italian trade union in organising disintermediation

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  • Ilaria Armaroli

Abstract

Facing the spread of management-led direct employee voice, trade unions are stuck with a theoretical and practical dilemma: organising against the disintermediation threats or accepting the risk of marginalisation and partnering with management to at least secure mutual gains. This article casts light on organising disintermediation as a chance for trade unions to overcome the ‘ organising against vs surrendering to disintermediation ’ trade-off, by taking the lead in the promotion, regulation and implementation of direct employee voice. The analysis of FIM-CISL Brescia shows that far from exclusively being a link to organisational performance and a challenge to union intermediation , direct employee voice may become a trade union goal, being the expression of employee self-determination and human dignity. Pursuing this goal translates into a multifaceted change for the trade union, regarding both its internal ( organising ) and external ( partnership ) dimension.

Suggested Citation

  • Ilaria Armaroli, 2022. "Integrating direct employee voice within the framework of worker representation: The role of an Italian trade union in organising disintermediation," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 43(2), pages 658-684, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:43:y:2022:i:2:p:658-684
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X20937414
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