Power to Participate: Building Young Voices, Choices and Experiences

Abstract

The study examines the future needs of young workers (18–35 years old) and how the labour union membership model in Singapore could evolve to continue to stay relevant to current and future workers. A combination of literature and qualitative research methods were used to examine the needs of youth and young workers. The insights and research findings indicated that the Singapore Labour Movement’s reputation amongst the youth is that of a place of “insurance”, in that it is a place only approached when one is in times of need. This has diminished the Labour Movement’s presence and reach amongst youth. To address this, we have adapted the Barbell Strategy’s principles and presented 4 actionable plans that aim to reposition the labour union as not just containing offerings of “insurance”, but also “investment”. The 4 actionable plans identify gaps in the market/society and leverage the union’s resources, as well as cater to the needs and interests of youth/young workers.