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Do international union alliances contribute to the effectiveness of international framework agreements? A comparative study of Telefonica and Portugal Telecom

Author

Listed:
  • Reynald Bourque

    (University of Montreal, Canada)

  • Marc-Antonin Hennebert

    (HEC Montréal, Canada)

  • Christian Lévesque

    (HEC Montréal, Canada)

  • Gregor Murray

    (University of Montreal, Canada)

Abstract

This study explores how international union alliances (IUAs) contribute to the effectiveness of international framework agreements (IFAs) in emerging or developing economies. Drawing on a distinction between procedural and normative effectiveness, it conducts a longitudinal analysis based on detailed multi-level case studies of two telecom multinational companies – Telefonica and Portugal Telecom – which have signed IFAs. It explores the impact of four dimensions of IUAs (governance structures, material resources, deliberative processes and access to institutional resources) on the effectiveness of IFAs. Key conclusions highlight the importance of procedural effectiveness for normative effectiveness and the role of IUAs’ organizational and institutional resources in ensuring respect for workers’ rights through IFAs.

Suggested Citation

  • Reynald Bourque & Marc-Antonin Hennebert & Christian Lévesque & Gregor Murray, 2021. "Do international union alliances contribute to the effectiveness of international framework agreements? A comparative study of Telefonica and Portugal Telecom," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 42(3), pages 450-472, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:42:y:2021:i:3:p:450-472
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X18776423
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    References listed on IDEAS

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