Regional Integration and Class Conflict: MERCOSUR and the Argentine Labour Movement

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of the MERCOSUR agreement on wages, employment and working conditions in Argentina. It also considers the ways in which MERCOSUR will influence the organisational integrity of the labour movement, and the political implications for organised labour. Evidence demonstrates the erosion of the power of labour and particularly its bargaining position relative to the different elements which constitute Argentinian capital. Argentinian labour has been further weakened by the institutional character of the Trade Union movement and needs to build an alternative grassroots movement whilst forging links with other MERCOSUR members.