Definition
A general strike is a coordinated, large-scale work stoppage involving a majority of the organized workforce within a nation, region, or municipality. This form of industrial action serves to apply pressure on management or government officials, aiming to bring about contractual agreements, rectify unresolved grievances, or gain recognition for labor unions. General strikes are usually a last resort, representing a unified effort by workers across various industries and sectors.
Examples
-
The 1934 West Coast Waterfront Strike: This strike involved dockworkers along the U.S. West Coast, leading to a shutdown of major ports and significant negotiations resulting in improved labor conditions and the establishment of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU).
-
The 1968 French General Strike: Almost one-third of the French workforce participated in this strike, leading to major social and economic reforms including pay raises and a reduction in the working week.
-
Spain’s 2010 General Strike: This strike was organized by two of Spain’s major labor unions to protest against labor law reforms, austerity measures, and public sector cuts imposed by the government.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What triggers a general strike? A general strike is typically triggered by widespread dissatisfaction among workers regarding employment conditions, labor policies, government legislation, or failure to recognize or negotiate with unions.
How is a general strike different from other types of strikes? Unlike localized or industry-specific strikes, a general strike involves a broad, cross-sector mobilization encompassing various industries, aiming for large-scale societal and economic impact.
Who organizes a general strike? General strikes are often organized by major labor unions or coalitions of labor organizations, sometimes supported by political groups or social movements.
Are general strikes legal? The legality of general strikes varies by country and region. In some places, such actions are legally protected, while in others they may be considered illegal or face significant legal restrictions.
How often do general strikes occur? General strikes are relatively rare, especially in countries like the United States, where labor laws and unionization rates can limit the feasibility and frequency of such widespread actions.
Related Terms
- Collective Bargaining: The negotiation process between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements that regulate working conditions.
- Labor Union: An organization of workers formed to protect and advance their rights and interests.
- Industrial Action: Activities undertaken by unionized workers, such as strikes or work-to-rule, to enforce demands regarding employment conditions.
- Work-to-Rule: An industrial action where employees perform only the duties specified in their job descriptions, often to highlight inadequate staffing or other grievances.
- Strikebreaker (Scab): A person who works despite an ongoing strike, often hired temporarily to undermine the strike action.
Online References
- Investopedia’s Definition of General Strike
- Wikipedia’s Article on General Strike
- ILO: International Labour Organization - Workers’ Rights
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Strike! by Jeremy Brecher
- Rebel Rank and File: Labor Militancy and Revolt from Below During the Long 1970s edited by Aaron Brenner, Robert Brenner, and Calvin Winslow
- The Devil’s Milk: A Social History of Rubber by John Tully
- Labor’s Great War: The Struggle for Industrial Democracy and the Origins of Modern American Labor Relations, 1912-1921 by Joseph A. McCartin
Fundamentals of General Strike: Labor Relations and Industrial Actions Quiz
Thank you for exploring the concept of general strikes and testing your knowledge with our quiz! Keep engaging with important labor relations topics to deepen your understanding.
