What is trade unions and explain the characteristics functions and problems faced by trade unions?
Answers
Trade unions are organizations formed by workers from related fields that work for the common interest of its members.
Features :
It is an association either of employers or employees or of independent workers.
It is formed on a continuous basis.
It is formed to protect and promote all kinds of interests –economic, political and social-of its members.
It achieves its objectives through collective action and group effort.
Problems :
Lack of Balanced Growth:
A vast majority of the working population is without any union backing. The entire agricultural sector is highly unorganized in India. The agricultural workers are subject to all kinds of exploitation.
Low Membership:
Trade unions , with the exception of few have low membership. This is because many employees are not willing to join unions although they are ready to enjoy the benefits arising out of the union actions.
Poor financial Position:
Low membership is one of the reasons for the poor financial position of the unions. Moreover, the subscription payable by every member is kept low. There are not many sources from where the union can get funds.
Political Control:
Most popular trade unions in India are affiliated to certain political parties. These political parties are only keen on making every grievance of the working class a political issue to attain political gains.
Lack of Recognition: Most management is not prepared to recognize trade unions.
Multiplicity of Unions:
Often there exists more than one union within the same industry each backed by a political party. These various unions have conflicting ideology.