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Current Trends of German Codetermination by Works Councils: On Path Dependencies, Erosion and Innovation

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  • Thomas Haipeter

Abstract

This article is about current developments of codetermination by works councils as a core institution of labour relations in Germany. It is argued that we can observe seven different paths of development which point into different directions, combining processes of erosion, functional change and social innovation in co‐determination.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Haipeter, 2025. "Current Trends of German Codetermination by Works Councils: On Path Dependencies, Erosion and Innovation," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 56(3), pages 226-235, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indrel:v:56:y:2025:i:3:p:226-235
    DOI: 10.1111/irj.12461
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Thomas Haipeter, 2020. "Digitalisation, unions and participation: the German case of ‘industry 4.0’," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 51(3), pages 242-260, May.
    2. Rehder, Britta, 2003. "Betriebliche Bündnisse für Arbeit in Deutschland: Mitbestimmung und Flächentarif im Wandel," Schriften aus dem Max-Planck-Institut für Gesellschaftsforschung Köln, Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies, volume 48, number 48.
    3. Artus, Ingrid & Kraetsch, Clemens & Röbenack, Silke, 2016. "Betriebsratsgründungen. Typische Phasen, Varianten und Probleme," WSI-Mitteilungen, Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, vol. 69(3), pages 183-191.
    4. Schroeder, Wolfgang, 2016. "Konfliktpartnerschaft - still alive: veränderter Konfliktmodus in der verarbeitenden Industrie," EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, vol. 23(3), pages 374-392.
    5. Ellguth, Peter & Trinczek, Rainer, 2016. "Erosion der betrieblichen Mitbestimmung – Welche Rolle spielt der Strukturwandel?," WSI-Mitteilungen, Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, vol. 69(3), pages 172-182.
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