Trade Unions of the World (8th edition)

Book excerpt: Trade Unions of the World is the essential guide to trade unions and trade unionism in more than 200 countries and territories around the world, examining the social, political and economic contexts they inhabit. Each country profile includes an overview of the political and economic history of the country or territory and an outline of the development of trade unionism locally and the situation for trade unions and trade union rights today. The profiles include details not only of national centres but also of all larger affiliated unions, giving a comprehensive global picture of trade unionism around the world today. A wide range of data is provided on the history, structure, membership and political and industrial role of the unions. A final section profiles the key actors at global and regional levels. The country profiles cover: • Political and economic background • Population, GDP, HDI and GINI Indexes • Overview of trade union history and development within the country • Details for national trade union centres and further detail on the history and character of key affiliates and non-affiliated unions • International affiliations