CCOMPARATIVE INDUSTRIL RELATIONS 2011 Comparative Industrial Relations (HRM 401) Module lecturee: Mr C.N Gwatidzo Mr F. Ncube fncube@msu.ac.zw 0772490074

First focus Area Introduction and why study Comparative IR. Zimbabwe. Globalisation MNC/TNC France Germany Sweden

Second Focal Area Malaysia Japan Singapore South Korea Brazil India Russia

Last focus Area China U.K Australia South Africa SADC Conclusion.

Comparative Industrial Relations A study of IR systems operative in a cross section of countries which reveals the strong interaction between these systems and the society in which they function.

Convergence theory Suggests that technological change ultimately creates similar I.R systems. Ways of working in countries through out the world becomes similar when influenced by the same technologies and size. Results in similar production lines which influence the kind of HR & Work policies each nation will tend to follow. Ignores culture.

Marxist Sees Capitalism as a mode of production in which private ownership of capital and competition between capital enterprises are primary feature. The profit motive drives the system which is achieved by surplus value from labour. Focus on relationship between management and labour. Hence variety of mgnt-labour relations through out the world merely reflects the various stages of capitalism through which economies are passing.

Cultural Perspective Hofstede (1991.17) stresses the importance of cultural differences. Believes that there is no evidence that cultures of the present day generations from different countries are converging. Suggests that cultural differences play an enormous role in the way employees behave in organizations.

Aims To understand the problems and advantages of comparative study of industrial relations. To understand the impact of globalization and the role of SADC in debates over convergence of industrial relations. To understand how different forms of worker presentation shape the role of Trade Unions. Problems of comparing both union and employees as well as industrial relations systems. Links that exist with industrial issues. The structure, aims and possible impact of SADC initiatives.

Areas of interest Societal variables influencing the IR system. The dominant ideology. The role of state. Public policy. Historical forces. Economic circumstances. Trade union and activity and history. The degree of democratization in a particular country

Reading List Bendix S (1996) Industrial Relations in the New South Africa 3rd ed. Juta & co. Bean R (1994) Comparative IR. An introduction to cross national perspectives 2nd ed. Routledge. Ferner and Hyman I.R in new Europe. Bamber GJ International and Comperative I.R