Solidarity versus neoliberalism: Union regional and interregional organization in Europe and Asia

Abstract

The broadening of the economic integration and liberalization agenda through the post‐Maastricht European Union (EU) and Asia‐Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) processes has given impetus to regional organization of unions, and in some cases to a more critical analysis of the impacts of liberalization. However, the responses of unions in Europe and East Asia are shaped by their very different historical and economic contexts. Union responses take place at two levels: the lobbying of governments by union peak bodies; and the ability of their affiliates, through both industry‐based and national centres, to mobilize their members in collective action. Effective collective action also requires alliances with other social forces. The paper examines the potential for effective transnational labour solidarity networks and actions both within regional contexts and across regions. This is done through analysis of recent case studies of solidarity actions within and between both regions. In the EU context the case studies examine the response to cuts in public expenditure resulting from moves to European Monetary Union and the closure of the Renault plant in Vilvoorde, Belgium. In the APEC context the case studies deal with recent campaigns on labour law changes and privatization by independent unions in South Korea and the Philippines. These examples demonstrate the potential for further development of interregional solidarity, especially through regional union networks based on sectors or industries and campaigns around multinational corporations operating in both Europe and Asia.