A propos de la recherche sur le syndicalisme et l’altermondialisme: quelles intersections avec la nouvelle génération militante?

Abstract

This paper discusses how social movements could be a source of trade union revitalisation. Four sociological fault lines are identified: (i) a stand for participative as against representative democracy; (ii) organic and inclusive forms of representation as against corporatism and labour chauvinism; (iii) a preference for direct action, emotion and fun, as against administrative-led and ritualised forms of conflict; (iv) passion, utopia and contest as against regulation. Further, given that anti-globalisation movements are largely fueled by the new generation of militants, in a context when unions seem to struggle to reach them, the paper emphasizes four points of intersection with youth activism: (i) precarious employment; (ii) citizenship; (iii) student unionism; (iv) emancipation and the artist critic. It concludes with certain recommendations for the involvement of young militants.