Key strategies for organising workers engaged in non-standard employment: a multi-case study analysis

Abstract

Increasing rates of non-standard employment have led to increases in workers lacking union representation and avenues for collective bargaining. Workers engaged in non-standard employment may benefit from worker-led approaches to advocate for fair working conditions. This study aimed to understand factors that impact the success of worker-led movements to improve working conditions and/or advocate for workers’ rights through a multi-case study analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 participants from four unique cases of worker-led movements from Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Coding and analysis used an iterative process guided by thematic analysis, and a combination of inductive and deductive approaches informed our findings. Participants identified common challenges, including employer resistance to organising efforts, the inherent precarity present in their work, and economic and legal challenges. Three key themes to facilitate action were also identified: (1) equitable internal structures focused on sharing power, (2) engagement of strategic allies, and (3) capacity building through worker education. These findings offer novel insights on the unique needs of workers engaged in non-standard work that is temporary, casual, or precarious in nature. This study provides important considerations for future worker-led movements and can serve as guidance for labour organisations and other community groups.