Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining

Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining

Prof. Dr. Dr. Andranik Tangian Hans Böckler Foundation, Düsseldorf University of Karlsruheandranik-tangian@boeckler.de

Data structure (CLA archiv, NL)

Which trends are in collective labour agreements (NL)?

Share of flexicurity-relevant CLAs in all CLAs

Instrument just developed by HBS

Evaluation of 3483 CLAs (NL) with respect to the status quo

Checklist No. 1 (descriptive)

Checklist No. 2 (analytical)

Nov 2009

A.Tangian. Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining8

What should trade unions do?

Struggle for profound policy changes, not only for minor advantages

(In NL 333 small security issues do not outbalance 21 flexibility issues!)

Weak left parties - politisation of unions

Develop operational instruments to keep the situation under control

Nov 2009

A.Tangian. Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining9

Reform proposalFlexinsurance

Employer's contribution to social security proportional to the flexibility of the contract/risk of becoming unemployed

Prototypes: “dismissal taxes”

Progressive: Experience rating in US

Flat: Austrian Abfertigungsrecht

Nov 2009

A.Tangian. Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining10

Reform proposal Workplace tax

The worse working conditions (‘social pollution’), the higher the tax paid by the employer

Prototypes:

Green tax which stimulates enterprises to consider the natural environment

French bonus 10% of total earnings upon the termination of temporary contract

Nov 2009

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Reform proposal Basic income

A flat income paid by the state to all citizens regardless of their earnings and property status

Prototypes

Kindergeld in Germany paid to all parents

Solidarity pensions in Chili and Switzerland

Minimal wage

Nov 2009A.Tangian. Towards computer-assisted collective bargaining12

Reform proposal Constraining financial markets

Foreign investments mean export of jobs

Employers are given a legal instrument for pressure on European governments: ‘If you do not accept our requirements, we move jobs abroad’

Unconstrained financial speculations end up with an economic recession

… and we are in crisis now