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INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS & LABOR LAWS

BY: Prof. V.P.KAKKAR

MODULE - I

DEFINING IR
Industrial relations encompasses a set of phenomena, both inside and outside the workplace, concerned with determining and regulating employment relationship Relationship between management and employees or among employees and their organization that characterize and grow out of employment.

Chapter 1 Theories and Concepts Used to Analyse Industrial Relations

Approaches Used to Define Industrial Relations (1)

(1)

Institutional-based definitions: industrial relations are the sum of institutional processes that establish and administer the rules regulating workplace relations
Social Psychology-based definitions: industrial relations are the sum of social psychological interactions between individuals Class-based definitions: industrial relations are the sum of institutions, interactions and processes that are a product of wider social and economic influences, in particular the class divisions of contemporary capitalism

(2)

(3)

These lecture slides are copyright to Eruditions Publishing and may not be used or reproduced without written permission of the publisher, except in those institutions and courses where Petzall, Abbott, Timo, Australian Industrial Relations in Asian Context 2E is a prescribed student textbook.

Approaches Used to Define Industrial Relations (2) Ddefinitions that seek to include all matters contained in the first three definitions within other terms: (4) Human Resource Management: contracts of employment (involving trade unions, worker collectives, labour courts and government agencies), as well as management of conflict arising out of the personal interactions of individuals in the workplace, are part of labour management functions ( i.e. recruitment, selection, training, development, performance management, and so on) (5) Employment Relations (or Employee Relations): contracts of employment (involving trade unions, worker collectives, labour courts and government agencies), as well as the management of conflict arising out of the personal interactions of individuals in the workplace, are part of workplace relations, together with the normal functions of Human Resource Management.

OBJECTIVES OF IR
To enhance economic status of worker To avoid industrial conflicts and their consequences To extend and maintain industrial democracy To provide an opportunity to the worker to have a say in the management decision making To regulate production by minimizing conflicts To provide forum to the workers to solve their problems through mutual negotiations and consultations with management To encourage and develop trade union in order to develop workers collective strength

NATURE OF IR
IR arise out of employer employee relations IR is a web of rules: formed by the interaction of Govt, industry & labor IR is multi dimensional: influenced by complex set of institutional. economic & technological factors IR is dynamic and changing: keep pace with employee expectations, trade unions, employer associations and other economic and social institutions of society IR is characterized by forces of conflict and compromise. Individual differences and disagreements resolved through constructive means. Govt influences and shapes IR: with its laws, rules, agreements through executive and judicial machinery Scope of IR is very wide as it covers grievances, disciplinary measures ethics, standing orders, collective bargaining, participatory schemes and dispute settlement mechanism etc Interactive and consultative in nature: in resolving conflict,controversies and disputes between labor and management.

SCOPE OF IR
Management Union relationship Employer Employee relationship Relationship amongst various groups of employees Effect of extraneous factors like state, socio-political- economic factors on workplace relationships

Approaches to industrial relations


Approaches to organisations

Unitary
Authoritarian Paternalism

Pluralistic
Co-operation Conflict Approaches to industrial relations

Marxist
Evolution Revolution

Input Conflict (differences)

Conversion Institutions and processes

Output Regulation (rules)

Human resource management Labour market

Systems

Social action

Wider approaches to industrial relations

Control of the labour process

Comparative

UNITARY APPROACH
IR is grounded in mutual cooperation, individual treatment, team work and shared goals. Work place conflict is seen as temporary aberration, resulting from poor management Employees who do not mix well with organization culture Unions cooperate with the management Managements right to manage is accepted because there is no we they feeling Underlying assumption is that everyone benefits when the focus is on common interest and promotion of harmony Based on reactive strategy. Direct negotiation with employees Participation of Govt, tribunals and unions are not sought or are seen as being necessary for achieving harmonious employee relation

PLURALISM
(CONFLICT APPROACH )
Pluralism is belief in the existence of more than one ruling principle, giving rise to a conflict of interests. The pluralist approach to IR accepts conflict between management and workers as inevitable but containable through various institutional arrangements ( like collective bargaining, conciliation and arbitration etc) and is in fact considered essential for innovation and growth. It perceives organizations as coalitions of competing interests , where the managements role is to mediate among the different interest groups. It perceives trade unions as legitimate representative of employee interests It also perceives stability in IR as the product of concessions and compromises between management and unions. Employees join unions to protect their interests and influence decision making by the management. Unions thus balance the power between management and employees. In pluralistic approach a strong unions is not only desirable but necessary

MARXIST APPROACH
Marxists like pluralists also regard conflict as inevitable but see it as a product of capitalistic society where as pluralist believe that the conflict is inevitable in all organizations For Marxists IR has wider meaning. For them conflict arises not because of rift between management and workers but because of the division in the society between those who own resources and those who have only labor to offer. Marxist approach thus focuses on the type of society in which an organization functions. Industrial conflict is thus equated with political and social unrest Trade Unions are seen both as labor reaction to exploitation by capitalists, as-well-as a weapon to bring about a revolutionary social change. Wage related disputes as secondary For them all strikes are political and they regard state intervention ( via legislations and creation of Industrial Tribunals ) as supporting managements interests, rather than ensuring a balance between the competing groups.

Systems approach
IR - a social sub-system within the econ. & political systems Components
actors contexts (influences & constraints on decisions & action e.g. market, technology, demography, industrial structure) ideology - beliefs affecting actor views - shared or in conflict rules - regulatory elements i.e. the terms & nature of the employment relationship developed by IR processes

OTHER APPROACHES OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS


( DIFFERENT SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT )

PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH Differences in the perceptions of labor and management wrt factors influencing their relations i.e. wages. Benefits, services and working conditions etc Dissatisfaction compels workers to turn aggressive and resort to strike, lockouts and gherao etc. SOCIOLOGICAL APPROACH Sociological factors such as value system, customs and traditions etyc affect the relations between labor and management HUMAN RELATIONS APPROACH Human behavior is influenced by feelings, sentiments and attitudes. As per this approach humans are motivated by variety of social and psychological factors like economic and non-economic awards to be used. GIRI APPROACH Collective bargaining and joint negotiations be used to settle disputes between labor and management. Outside interference to be avoided. GANDHIAN APPROACH worker's right to strike but cautioned that this right be exercised in just cause and in a peaceful and non-violent manner for minimum wages etc like satyagrah- Non violent noncooperation

ROLES OF WORKERS, MANAGEMENT & GOVERNMENT

PARTIES TO IR

EMPLOYEES

EMPLOYERS

EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATIONS

EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

EMPLOYER ASSOCIATION

GOVERNMENT

COURTS & TRIBUNALS

ROLE OF WORKERS
WORKERS and their ORGANIZATIONS( Trade Unions or Associations ) Trade unions have a protecting role of safeguarding workers interests, Regulating function of ensuring implementation of statutes / Acts Ensuring non-violation of workers rights Trade Union Act provides Status and Authority for the power vested in them This power is used for negotiating Wage Interests, better benefits and service conditions, concessions, more amenities and welfare schemes Structure of Workers organization or Trade unions differs from country to country

ROLE OF MANAGEMENT
An organization is represented through officials designated in the organization structure for coordination of activities relating to:

Administering employee benefits Regulating terms and condition of employment Providing welfare and social security benefits Coordination is done through graded hierarchical and formal communication channels of orders and directives Style and manner in which employer organizations get work and regulate the terms and conditions of employment affects the industrial relations of the unit.

ROLE OF GOVERNMENT
Govt or state machinery regulates the relationship between workers organizations and employers organizations. It does it through : - Statutes and legislations, - The judiciary- labor courts industrial tribunals - An executive machinery- that lays down rules, procedures and gives awards and monitors them

Employment Relations
Dunlops model

FACTORS AFFECTING EMPLOYEE RELATIONS


INTERNAL FACTORS:
Attitudes of management to employees and unions Attitudes of employees to management and unions

Attitudes of unions to unions to management and employees


Present and likely future strength of unions Effective and agreed procedures for discussing and resolving grievances or handling disputes within the company

Inter union rivalries in case of more than one union


Effectiveness and capability of managers and supervisors in resolving grievances and handling disputes. Company's strategy wrt expansion, diversification, contraction , stabilization, turnaround and stagnation etc Quality of work life ( QWL), growth and developmental opportunities Degree of Autonomy and Empowerment given to employees

FACTORS AFFECTING EMPLOYEE RELATIONS


EXTERNAL FACTORS: Militancy of unions- nationally or locally Authority and effectiveness of the employers family The extend to which bargaining is carried out at national, local or plant level The effectiveness of any national or local procedure agreements that may exist Employment situation nationally or locally Legal framework within which IR exists

SOCIAL SECURITY
( IMPACT ON EMPLOYEE RELATIONS )
Social security is one of the key components of labor welfare Labor welfare refers to all such services, amenities and facilities to the employees that improve their working conditions as-well-as their standard of living Social security benefits provided by an organizations should protect not only their employees but also their family members including financial security and health care etc Social security envisages that the employee shall be protected against all types of social risks that may cause undue hardship to them in fulfilling their basic needs. Accidents, job losses, retirement, sickness, death while on dutythese are realities of working life and leave a person and his dependents vulnerable Social security is an attempt by the employer and the state io institute measures that mitigate such social risks

MAJOR LEGISLATIONS
India being a welfare state has taken up itself the responsibility of extending various benefits of social security and social assistance to its citizens. Although the constitution of india is yet to recognize social security as a fundamental right, it does require state to promote the welfare of the people by providing social, economic and political justice Constitution requires companies to make effective provisions for making effective provisions for securing right to work, to educate and public assistance in case of unemployment, old age, sickness and disablement. Securing just and humane conditions of work. Raise level of nutrition and standard of living, improvement of public health etc A social security division has been set up under the ministrybof labor and employment. In the context of labor , social security aims at reducing risks against loss of earnings or earning capacity due to old age,illness or workrelated injuries.

Social security to the workers is provided through 5 major Acts: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Employees State Insurance act, 1948 Employees provident Fund and Miscellaneous provisions Act The Workers Compensation Act The Maternity Benefit Act The payment of Gratuity Act In addition there are large number of welfare funds also for some specific segments Major thrust of social security relating to labor is on: a) Provisions relating to medical facilities, compensation benefits and insurance coverage incase if accidents, incapacity, illness etc.. b) Provisions relating to provident fund and gratuity

MODULE II
TRADE UNIONS & INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES

What is a Trade Union?


Definition: An organization of workers or employees formed mainly to _ Negotiate with the employers on various
employment related issues Improve the terms and conditions at their workplace Enhance their status in society

In most countries, there are laws governing the formation, membership and administration of trade unions.

ORIGIN & GROWTH OF TRADE UNION MOVEMENT


Industrialization brought about new economic and social order in societies. TU emerged as a result of industrialization in new social order First workers union in India under the leadership of Mr Lokhande was developed in 1890 Beginning of labor movement in the modern sense started after the outbreak of World War I Economic. Political and social conditions influenced the growth of trade union movement in India. Establishment of ILO helped the formation of TUs in the country In 1920 AITUC( All India Trade Union Congress) was formed- the 1st All India trade union World War II brought splits in AITUC. Efforts of Indian National Congress resulted in the formation of INTUC( Indian National Trade Union Congress) Socialists separated from AITUC formed HMS( Hind Mazdoor Sabha) in 1948 Some other unions were also formed. They were BMS ( Bhartiya Majdoor Sangh) in1955, HMP( Hind Majdoor Panchayat) in 1965, CITU( Centre of Indian Trade Union ) in 1970

PRINCIPLE OF TRADE UNION


1. UNITY: Unity is strength

2. EQUALITY: Workers must not be


discriminated wrt caste, creed, sex etc. Each worker should get equal pay for equal work

3. SECURITY: Security of their employment


and their families must be safeguarded

Objectives of a Trade Union


1. Collective bargaining
Represent members to negotiate with employers, for better wages and conditions of employment

2. Safeguard jobs
Protect jobs of members

3. Cooperate with employers


For the benefits of members, resolve disputes in a mutually acceptable manner

Objectives of a Trade Union


4. Political activities
- Support pro-union political parties

5. Social activities
- Support members with recreation facilities and benefits for unemployment, illness, retirement, death

Types of Unions
1. Craft union
Same craft or occupation

2. General union
For unskilled workers

3. Staff union
Non-manual workers

Types of Unions
4. Industry union
Same industry, regardless of skills, occupation or job

5. House union (company or enterprise union)


All members are from the same company regardless of occupation or job

Why Workers Join Unions


1. Higher wages and better working
conditions
Collective bargaining with employer

2. Job security
More secured with collective agreement

3. Social need
Meet co-workers from other departments or companies

Why Workers Join Unions


4. Upgrading of skills
Attend training courses organized by union

5. Peer pressure
Colleagues are members

6. Self-fulfillment
Serve other members

OBJECTIVES/IMPORTANCE OF TRADE UNIONS

Wages & salaries


Policy matter but differences in implementation, so comes the role of trade union

Working conditions
safeguarding workers health: Lighting & ventilation, sanitation, rest rooms, safety equipments ( hazards free atmosphere , drinking water, refreshments, working hours, leave & rest, holidays with pay, job satisfaction, social security benefits and other welfare measures

Discipline
Protect workers from victimization by management- transfers, suspensions, dismissals etc

Personal policies
Fighting against improper implementation of personnel policies wrt recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, training etc..

Welfare
Solving difficulties of workers through collective bargaining wrt sanitation, hospitals, quarters, schools, colleges and other basic amenities

Employer- employee relations


Bureaucratic attitude and unilateral thinking of mgmt may lead to conflicts Trade unions go for constant negotiations for industrial democracy and peace.

Negotiating machinery
Based on give and take principle, negotiations continue till parties reach an agreement. Protect interests of workers through collective bargainINg

Safeguarding organizational health


Methods evolved for grievance redressal, techniques adopted to reduce absenteeism and labor turnover. upgrading skills- attend training courses organized by unions

ACTIVITIES OF TRADE UNION


ECONOMIC: Improved economic status, shorter working day, improvement in living and working conditions, better health & safety standards, upgrading welfare facilities, reducing inequalities- both internally & externally POLITICAL: Seeking / obtaining political power through political affiliations, lobbying activities to influence the cause of labor and legislations, participating & representing workers on bipartite forums, developing revolutionary ideologies among workers, protesting against Govt. decisions SOCIAL: Initiating & developing workers education system, organizing welfare & recreational facilities, providing monitory and other help during period of strike and economic distress, running cooperative welfare schemes and societies, hosing needs/ community development, organizing cultural functions & social welfare programmes NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL LEVEL: Representing workers at the national level on advisory committees, associating with national federations for unity & solidarity, Raising funds in case of national / International calamities or tragedies

FEATURES OF AN EFFECTIVE TRADE UNION Internally democratic Have a strong leadership Exhibit a responsibility towards their worker members Committed to promote industrial peace and harmony Inclined towards collective bargaining that is collaborative and not competitrive Possess financial security Adaptable to change

Industrial Dispute and individual dispute


Industrial dispute means any dispute or difference between employers and employers, or between employers and workmen or between workmen and workmen, which is connected with employment or non-employment or the terms of employment .The dispute has to be between plurality of workman and employer Individual workman cannot raise an industrial dispute

Individual dispute deemed as industrial dispute


1965 amendment to I.D ACT and insertion of 2A. Where any employer discharges, dismisses, retrenches or otherwise terminates the services of an individual workman, any dispute or difference between that workman and his employer.shall be deemed to be an industrial dispute notwithstanding that no other workman nor any union of workmen is a party to the dispute. This definition is not applicable to disputes short of termination

FORMS OF UNREST/DISPUTES
STRIKES: A strike is spontaneous and concerted refusal of work and withdrawal of labor from production temporarily. It is a collective stoppage of work for pressurizing their employers to accept certain demands. TYPES OF STRIKES:
SYMPATHETIC STRIKE: To show sympathy with workers in other industries GENERAL STRIKE: Strike by all or most of the unions in an industry or a region UNOFFICIAL STRIKE: Strike undertaken without the consent of the unions SECTIONAL STRIKE: Refusal of a section of a given class of workers to perfor their normal duties BUMPER STRIKES: to paralyze the industry firm by firm SIT DOWN /TOOL DOWN/PEN DOWN: Strike when unions plan strike and workers cease to perform but do not leave the place of work: SLOW DOWN STRIKE: Go-slow tactic, workers do not stop working but dot perform at their normal pace LIGHTNING STRIKE: Workers may go on strike without notice or at very short notice with an element of surprise HUNGER STRIKE: To gain sympathy from public and get noticed by employer workers may decide to forego food for a specified period. Such non-violent protests generally bring moral pressure on employers

FORMS OF UNREST/DISPUTES
LOCK-OUTS:
It is the counterpart of strike. It is the weapon available with employer to close down the factory till the workers agree to resume work on the conditions laid down by employer. If it is impossible to meet the demands of workers, employers may decide o go for lock-out An employer may also pull down the shutters so as to bring psychological pressure on the workers to agree to his conditions or face the closure of unit Gherao means to surround Group of workers initiate collective action aimed at preventing members of he management from leaving the office. This can happen outside the premises too Persons who atre under gherao are not allowed to move for a long time, sometime even without food or water National commission on labor has refused to accept it as a form of industrial protest While picketing workers carry/display signs ,banners and placards( In connection with dispute), prevent others from entering the place of work and persuade others to join the strike Boycott aims at disrupting the normal functioning of an enterprise, Through forceful and negative behavioral acts, strikers prevent others not to cooperate with employer

GHERAO:

PICKETING and BOYCOTT

MANAGEMENT ACTION TO COUNTER STRIKES EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION:


Employers may form their unions to collectively oppose the working class and put pressure on trade unions It is the counterpart of strike. An employer may close down the place of employment temporarily. It is very powerful weapon available with employer to pressurize workers till they agree to resume work on the conditions laid down by employer. If it is impossible to meet the demands of workers, employers may decide o go for lock-out An employer may also pull down the shutters so as to bring psychological pressure on the workers to agree to his conditions or face the closure of unit Employer may resort to suspension or disciplinary action leading to termination of workers on strike. The list of employees so suspended or dismissed may be circulated to the other employer so as to restrict their chances of getting employment with other employers.

LOCKOUT:

TERMINATION:

CHANGING ROLE / PUBLIC PERCEPTION TRADE UNIONS


Change in the attitude of unions towards management, Industry, Govt. and economy Unions becoming increasingly matured, responsive and realistic Gone are the days of frequent strikes, bandhs, gheraoes and violence Unions are reconciled to economic reforms. The accent is on opposing the adverse impact of reforms and not the reforms Discussion among trade union circles is now on issues like productivity, TQM, Technology, competition, MNCs, exports etc.. Unions aware of the Right Sizing and feel the need for suplus labor fat to be shed Days when unions were affiliated with political parties are gone by. Today thrust is on de- politicization of unions Experience of politically free unions is pleasant, reinforcing the belief that farther the unions are from politics, more advantageous it is for them

Workers association in our country is highly fragmented and the consequence is multiplicity of unions, which weakens the bargaining strength of employees. One of the defects of trade union movement in India has been the phenomenon of outside leadership. The fault of outside leadership lies with trade Union Act, 1926 itself. The act permitted outside participation to the extent of 50% of the strength of office bearers in a union. Trade Unions are at cross roads. Their membership is declining, Their political support is waning, public sympathy is receding, their relevance itself is at stake Managements on the other hand are on the offensive. They are able to force unions to accept terms and conditions. Workers,officers and managers are mercilessly terminated in the name of restructuring, downsizing etc Professionalisation of trade unions movement is another trend witnessed, they are trying to upgrade their leadership quality. Topics lie IT, strategic planning, diversity, networking and productivity etc now form inputs in training programmes organized for union leaders

TRADE UNIONISM IN INDIA TODAY


Unionization according to industry/region/state 70,000 registered trade unions , many not regisered 9 central unions, all affiliated to political parties 2 % of the union force unionized PSUs: Industrial level collective bargaining in coal/steel, enterprize level elsewhere Private sector: Plant level collective bargaining Union density according to the size of of industry Craft unions in Govt transport sector Unionization in India under recession Twin battle against Inter Union Competition and assertive management

MAJOR PROBLEMS FACED BY BTRADE UNIONS IN INDIA

Outside or political leadership Multiplicity of trade unions Small size of unions Low membership Uneven growth Poor financial position Low level of knowledge of labor legislation Fear of victimization

FUTURE ROLE OF TRADE UNIONS IN INDIA

TRADE UNION ACT (1926)


It legalizes the formation of trade unions by allowing employees the right to form and organize unions and also strengthen bargaining power of workers Act aims to provide law for the registration of trade unions and get it registered under the act Permits any seven persons to form a union OBJECTIVES Lay down conditions governing the registration of trade unions Defines obligations of trade unions Prescribe rights and liabilities of a registered trade union STATUS OF A REGISTERED UNION It becomes a body corporate It gets a common seal It can buy and hold movable and immovable property It can enter into contracts with others It can sue and be sued in its name

TRADE UNION ACT (1926)


REGISTRATION:
A trade union formed with at least 7 members may apply for registration with following documents A copy of the rules of trade union Name, occupation and addresses of members Name of trade union and address of its office Office Bearers of the trade unions In case already in operation- submit statement of accounts/assets and liability statement

OBLIGATIONS:
It should have a name, clearly laid down objective, membership list readily available, purpose for which funds shall be utilized, members to be the actually working persons , Honorary/temporary office bearers, conditions for benefits/fines, conditions under which rules shall be amended, manner in which office bearers shall be appointed, safe custody of funds and manner in which trade union shall be dissolved

RIGHTS AND LIABILITIES Section 15 of the Act provides for certain obligations and liabilities of registered unions
It also stipulates the purpose for which funds can be utilized

THE AMALGAMATION OF TRADE UNIONS:


Any two or more registered unions may get amalgamated together as one trade union

INDUSTRIAL DISPUTE ACT (1947)


Ever expanding complex multi product/project companies with diverse and conflicting interests of workmen and employers, growing labor consciousness, resulting in strikes and lockouts, lead to the outcome of Industrial dispute Act, 1947

Main provisions of the Act are: Settlement machinery -Provides suitable machinery for investigation, just, equitable and peaceful settlement of
industrial disputes and aims to provide justice both to employers and workmen - Collective bargaining, Negotiation

Aims at promoting security, amity and good relations between employer and employee or between employers and workmen or among workmen Prevent illegal strikes and lockouts and explains the contingencies when these can be lawfully resorted to or when these can be declared illegal or unlawful. Provide conditions and relief to workmen in the matters of lay-offs, retrenchment, dismissals and victimization
Last in first out in a retrenchment case or specific reasons in case of others

Provides conditions under which an industrial unit can be closed down


60 days notice to be given of intention to close down any undertaking Compensation to workmen in case of closing down

Get the workmen the right of collective bargaining and promote conciliation Lists down unfair labor practices on the part of both parties introduced in 1984

MACHINARY FOE SETTLEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES


KEY PROVISIONS OF ID ACT: COLLECTIVE BARGAINING: It is a technique by which disputes as to conditions of employment are resolved amicably, by agreement rather than coercion NEGOTIATION CONCILIATION AND MEDIATION: It is facilitated negotiation, essential in public utility services, Binding on parties to the disputes ARBITRATION: Voluntary Arbitration: agreement between workman and management, Send copy to the Govt and conciliation officer, publication of agreement ADJUDICATION

Compulsory Adjudication Reference by the Appropriate Government Sec. 10(1) S. 2-A, 33-A

LC, IT, NT

Award Sec. 18(3) of ID Act

Publication of award

Conciliation (if successful Settlement) Sec. 18(3) of The I D act

INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES

Judicial review - Art. 226 or Art. 136

Voluntary Arbitration 10-A

Award 18(2) & 18(3)

Judicial review - Art. 226 or Art. 136

Collective Bargaining If successful settlement Sec. 18(1) of ID Act

Publication of awards
Publication is must Time duration of 30 days is directory Award comes in to operation 30 days after publication Tribunal to recall the award

Conditions for Successful Bargaining


1. Freedom of association
Workers and employers are free to form their own associations to represent their interests.

2. Stability of union
Unions have to be stable for collective bargaining to be effective union is able to honor the agreement.

3. Recognition of union by employer


Collective bargaining begins after employer recognizes the union that claims to represent the specific group of workers.

Conditions for Successful Bargaining


4. Good faith
Both parties must be willing to resolve differences to reach an agreement.

5. Mutual respect
Relationship affected and process becomes tense and difficult if any party used unfair practices such as victimization.

6. Supportive legal system


Employment laws to ensure process takes place in an orderly manner.

Negotiations
Process depends on these factors:
1. Subject matter to be discussed 2. Persons involved 3. Circumstances under which the discussion is held.

A Typical Negotiation Process begins with each party stating its position. As discussion progresses, each party adjusts its demands to seek a mutually acceptable agreement.

Steps in Negotiation
1. Preparation
Each party must know what it wants.

2. Presentation
Each party presents its case.

3. Exchange and compromise


Parties look for possible adjustment or compromise.

4. Reaching an agreement
Parties sign a written statement on what have been agreed.

Ways to Settle Disputes


Impasse: settlement cannot be reached Impasses may be solved by these alternatives:
Conciliation Mediation Arbitration

Ways to Settle Disputes


Conciliation
Impartial third party helps the two parties to reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Conciliator meets parties separately or together to exchange information, clarify issues and settle misunderstanding. Conciliator does not impose a solution but works with the parties to enable them to come to an agreement.

Ways to Settle Disputes


Arbitration
Third party settles the dispute by making an independent decision for the two parties. Some prefer arbitration as the responsibility for reaching agreement is made by a neutral party (quite often, appointed by the government e.g. Arbitration Court). Arbitration gives some people the impression that they did not give in to the other party but fought all the way to the Arbitration Court.

Ways to Settle Disputes


Mediation
Impartial third party helps to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediator makes recommendations for the two parties to consider. Final agreement is made by the two parties themselves.

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