Problems of Trade Unions

6. Lack of interest

For a large majority of workers, unionism even today remains a foreign issue. In fact, workers avoid union activities out of sheer disinterestedness. Those who become part of the union do not also participate in the union work enthusiastically. In such a scenario, it is not surprising to find outside political leaders exploiting the situation to serve their own personal agenda.

 

7. Inter-Union Rivalry

Due to the existence of multiple unions there occurs the problem of union rivalry. Unions try to play down each other in a bid to gain greater influence among workers. In the process they do more harm than good to the cause of unionism as a whole. Employers are given an opportunity to play unions against each other. They can refuse to bargain on the contention that there is no true representative union. Besides this, the worker’s own solidarity is lost.

8. Heterogeneous nature of Labour

Since workers come to the factory with varying backgrounds, it is difficult for them to preset a joint front in case of trouble. Employers exploit the situation, under the circumstances, by dividing workers on the basis of race, religion, language, caste etc.

9. Problem of Recognition

One of the critical problems in industrial relations facing trade unions, government and employers for a long time is to evolve a satisfactory and acceptable way to settle the competitive claims of rival unions for being declared the sole bargaining agent. This is essential for collective bargaining to be successful. There is no uniform law covering the entire country stipulating the employer to recognize a union, nor any spelt-out procedure for the recognition of a union, management either refrain from doing so or recognize a union of their choice.

10. Absence of Paid Office-Bearers

Most of the unions do not have full time paid office-bearers. Union activists working on the honorary basis devote only limited time and energy to union activities. Union officers lack adequate knowledge and skill due to lack of proper training. Weak financial position and political leadership are the main reasons for this state of affairs

11. Apathy of members

Majority of workers do not take keen interest in union activities. The attendance at the general meetings of unions is very poor. Trade unionism can make little progress until members appreciate the need for supporting the movement for a common cause and take active part in the affairs of unions.

12. Opposition from Employers

Trade unions in have to face opposition from employers. Many employers try to intimidate and victimize labour leaders, start rival unions and bride union officials.

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