TRADE UNION RIVALRY AND ITS IMPACT ON LABOUR RELATIONS: THE CASE OF BOTSWANA
TRADE UNION RIVALRY AND ITS IMPACT ON LABOUR RELATIONS: THE CASE OF BOTSWANA

Summary/Abstract: This paper investigates the public sector trade unions rivalry in Botswana and its impact on union-employer relationship. The place of trade unions in socio-economic setup decides about more pluralistic or corporatist of a democratic institution. The biggest contention that that led to the simmering and skirmishes is premised on the issue of who should legitimately represent public servants at the newly formed Botswana Public Sector Bargaining Council. There are several evils in union rivalries. First, they lead to jurisdictional contests, which may harm innocent and neutral employers as well as the public. Second, they limit the extent to which unions can discipline their members and make their commitments effective. Third, they limit the effectiveness of the labor movement in influencing the course of public affairs. Fourth, they result in unsympathetic publicity, which whips up sentiment in favor of punitive legislation. Such legislation may be harmful to the cause of legitimate, responsible trade unionism. This paper therefore recommends strategies for the promotion of peace in the Botswana Public Service Sector. It is strongly recommended that the warring parties must unite against the employer as opposed to being disunited and weak.

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