Walking the Tightrope: The Imperatives of Balancing Control and Autonomy for Young Worker Groups

Abstract

Despite the growing number of union initiatives to foster a new generation of activists through the development of youth networks, issues of control and autonomy still remain. This article explores these tensions by drawing on case studies of labor organizations in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The findings suggest that union support for young worker initiatives is crucial for resources and networks, particularly when these groups are newly formed and in need of mentoring and material assistance. Significant local autonomy, however, is also critical to sustain the interest and creative energy of young worker groups.