The Strategy of Political Action in Union Revitalization: Lessons from the Telecommunications Industry in Australia and Taiwan

Abstract

This study analyzes how telecommunications unions in Australia and Taiwan struggled for their members` interests in response to privatization during 1996-2004. It argues that union revitalization is based on unions` responses rather than external environments; and although unions` strategic choices are influenced by institutions, what is significant is the reciprocal interconnections between the two. This study highlights the importance of union leaders` decisions and membership participation during privatization. Importantly, unions in Australia and Taiwan can learn from each other`s successful experiences in a restructuring environment, such as privatization.