Authors: Martinez Lucio, M., Connolly, H., Marino, S., and Smith, H.

Presenter: Miguel Martinez Lucio

Abstract:

In this paper, we argue that part of the trade union response to the challenges related to increasing migration and labour market fragmentation relates to how the state has engaged with questions of social inclusion in the past, as well as to its more recent withdrawal from various regulatory roles in the light of the continuous “rationalization” of resourcing. We argue that historical legacies of statutory regulatory practices have framed union action in the area of social inclusion and these create a template upon which “innovative” union strategies aimed at social inclusion are mediated (Wrench, 2004). Furthermore, the organisational memories and cultural practices of unions are crucial to be able to develop an understanding of the rationale for and development of representation and inclusion strategies.

The focus on migrant worker inclusion is due to the increasing challenges, perceived or real, which these groups of workers present to trade unions and the national regulatory practices in relation to labour market and the welfare state. The paper shows how unions in Spain, as a country which has seen an increase in migration in traditional union strongholds such as manufacturing and the public sector, draw on previous struggles which aimed to extend worker rights and regulation, to develop new union narratives and actions towards immigration. Our argument is that while this historical framing can help to construct solidarities, it can present challenges and may constrain innovation and more effective ways of engaging workers.