The Constitution of European Works Councils: From Information Forum to Social Actor?

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Abstract
This article presents and discusses the findings of an empirical study of European Works Councils (EWCs) in the metalworking and chemical industries in the UK, Italy, France, and Germany. It focuses on four issues: internal communication networks; relations with company management; links between EWCs and national institutions for employee representation; and cooperation between EWCs and trade unions. The research indicates that EWC members are rapidly learning to handle and develop the mechanisms of this new body. In a significant number of cases, informal relations between EWC and management have become an established fact. In short, a distinctive European industrial relations system is developing at the micro-level. Whether this proves a threat or an opportunity for the trade unions will depend not least on their own strategies for Europeanization.

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