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A Comparison of the British and the German Industrial Relations and its Implications

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  • Sang-Woo Lee

Abstract

A close investigation of the industrial relations in Britain and Germany reveals that there has occurred a clear divergence. But at the same time, a converging trend is also noticed. Regarding the latter, decentralization is gaining in power. This allows companies under certain conditions and to specified extents to modify or diverge from the agreed standards. What this comparative study demonstrates is that structural determinism is overplayed. The policies that unions and management adopt in response to certain circumstances are not predetermined. Not only are they capable of acting in response to various external constraints, but the nature of their response to secure their long-term future is an outcome of internal relations between the two sides.

Suggested Citation

  • Sang-Woo Lee, 2010. "A Comparison of the British and the German Industrial Relations and its Implications," International Area Studies Review, Center for International Area Studies, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, vol. 13(1), pages 167-182, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:intare:v:13:y:2010:i:1:p:167-182
    DOI: 10.1177/223386591001300109
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ingo Singe & Richard Croucher, 2005. "US Multi-Nationals and the German Industrial Relations System," management revue - Socio-Economic Studies, Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, vol. 16(1), pages 123-137.
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    3. Ingo Singe & Richard Croucher, 2005. "US Multi-Nationals and the German Industrial Relations System," management revue. Socio-economic Studies, Rainer Hampp Verlag, vol. 16(1), pages 123-137.
    4. Nicholas Bacon & John Storey, 2000. "New Employee Relations Strategies in Britain: Towards Individualism or Partnership?," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 38(3), pages 407-427, September.
    5. David E. Guest & Riccardo Peccei, 2001. "Partnership at Work: Mutuality and the Balance of Advantage," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 39(2), pages 207-236, June.
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