Hoffmann, Aline (2006) The construction of solidarity in a German Central Works Council : implications for European Works Councils. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis takes as its starting point the question whether European Works Councils
(EWCs) can overcome the divisive pressures of cross-border competition for jobs and
investment between sites. A review of the body of literature on EWCs yields that with
respect to this question, opinion is divided and examples are contradictory. The
central works council (CWC) established according to the German
Betriebsverfassungsgesetz is identified as a close analogue to an EWC. In the absence of a
body of literature on the internal functioning of CWCs, this research undertook to
examine in depth the experience of a single CWC as a lead case. As an analytical
framework, the contributions of theories of federalism as a means of reconciling unity
and diversity were applied to the multi-level system of employee interest
representation. A conceptualisation of solidarity as it might be generated among the
members of a central and/or European works council is developed. It is concluded that
a discursive/participative structure is most likely to enable the generation of solidarity
across and within a multi-level, essentially federalist system. Key analytical factors are
identified which are applied to the experience of the Central Works Council at
DaimlerChrysler, and to EWCs more generally. Applying the methods of participant
observation, semi-structured interviews with the CWC members, documentary
analysis, and a postal survey of the local works council members, the operation of the
central works council at DaimlerChrysler is explored in detail, covering its day-to-day
functioning, its articulation with local works councils, and the values and expectations
underlying its work. With reference to the conceptual framework, the findings from
the case study are compared with EWC law and practice more generally. It is
concluded that the EWC can be considered a nascent federalist system at most. Despite
the existence of important gaps, however, this research concludes that solidarity within
EWCs is possible if it can be built upon a participative and transparent set of
institutions and processes which are seen by EWC members, national and local
employee representatives, and trade unions to be fair and legitimate. The final chapter
explores the implications of this research for policy, practice and further research.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Works councils -- Germany, DaimlerChrysler, Works councils -- European Union countries
Official Date:	July 2006
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Warwick Business School
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Hyman, Richard; Marginson, Paul
Sponsors:	Economic and Social Research Council (Great Britain) (ESRC)
Extent:	267 pages
Language:	eng

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