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Do Labor Action Plans Work? Evidence From the U.S.–Colombia Labor Action Plan and Union Rights Violations

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  • Eduardo Mendoza Montoya
  • Carlos Eduardo Mendoza Leal

Abstract

Using judicial data, this study evaluates the impact of Colombia's Labor Action Plan (PAL) on Violations of Freedom of Work and Association. Findings show affected municipalities doubled post‐PAL, with predictors shifting from institutional presence to poverty and violent crime, underscoring persistent enforcement gaps in labor rights in Latin America.

Suggested Citation

  • Eduardo Mendoza Montoya & Carlos Eduardo Mendoza Leal, 2026. "Do Labor Action Plans Work? Evidence From the U.S.–Colombia Labor Action Plan and Union Rights Violations," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 57(1), pages 20-31, January.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:indrel:v:57:y:2026:i:1:p:20-31
    DOI: 10.1111/irj.70011
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    References listed on IDEAS

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