THE FIVE (5) PRINCIPLES OF TRADE UNIONISM

Trade unions all over the world adhere to five (5) principles of unionism which is already embedded in the policies, structure and programs of TUCP

Solidarity. Workers must confront and assert their rights collectively. A single worker is weak and voiceless. He has no bargaining power alone and finds himself at the mercy of the employer.
Freedom. Unions must remain independent from the control of management, political parties and government. It must continuously assert and protect the interest of workers

Democracy. Unionism is a collective undertaking hence, participative democracy must be manifested in all areas of organizational motions. Members should be consulted in all the actions and decisions to be undertaken by the union.
Unity. Worker’s unity is a source of power which shields workers from the advantage of employers as to resources and influence in society.
Responsibility. Workers are accountable not only to their sectors but to society itself. Responsible unionism means tempered and sober use of workers’ rights, including the indispensable right to strike.


THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LABOR AND CAPITAL

• The relationship between labor and capital have evolved from the early days where Workers were considered as properties of employers that can be sold when they are no longer useful
• To being considered an expense and input in production
• To becoming a partner of capital where labor contribute his/her skills, strength, education, knowledge, etc. to production and receives a corresponding share of the profit for such contribution
• Under a globalized environment, this concept of partnership between labor and capital sprouted and is being promoted especially among enlightened employers, government and unions.
• This is also used by unions to justify demands for increase in benefits embodied in their CBA proposals.

UNDERSTANDING THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF THE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS SYSTEM

• In most countries where the rule of the law is observed, there is a distinct and orderly hierarchy of laws that govern the life of every citizen of that country. This hierarchy has implications on the way a company formulate and implement rules in the workplace; thus, the need for union officers and members to understand this.
• The same is true in the Philippines.

THE HIERARCHY OF LAWS

• There are two principles that arise out of the recognition of this hierarchy that has implications on the relationship between labor and capital.: The first principle is that no law passed shall violate the Constitution where it was sourced. The Constitution is the fundamental law of the land and spells out the basic rights of individuals and the policies of the state. These policies have to be transformed into laws and rules and regulations before they can be implemented with the exception of the Bill of Rights.
• The second principle is that no special law, rule, agreement or practice can violate a higher right. Thus, an agreement between two (2) persons or parties such as a Collective Bargaining Agreement or a Memorandum of Agreement can not violate standards prescribed by the law.

• Source: alevars@yahoo.com