Vol. 3 No. issue1, March 2026 , pg, 2107-2124 (2026): THE IMPACT OF DECLINING TRADE UNION MEMBERSHIP ON COLLECTIVE BARGAINING IN MODERN WORKPLACES

Abstract

In modern employment practices trade unions were always important in providing protection to the employee and improving collective bargaining between workers and employers. But the decrease in union membership has worried about a lack of bargaining power, representation and influence on employment conditions amongst workers. The research here notes that as workers' participation in unions decreases, collective bargaining in the modern workplace becomes weakened. The purpose of the study is to discuss the link between the union number of membership and the effectiveness of collective bargaining; to identify some of the factors that are behind a reduction in union membership; to understand the impact of the loss of membership on the bargaining power of employees and workplace representation; and to consider what can be done to make collective bargaining more effective. A secondary data analysis qualitative research design is used. Thematic analysis was used for the examination of relevant academic literature, labour relations research, institutional reports, policy materials and current research. The results reveal that decreased membership can also lead to a decrease in collective bargaining coverage, in employee bargaining power, and in the ability of labour unions to force changes in wages, working conditions, and job security. Other elements of the study that are mentioned are the transformation in employment structures, the changing nature of technology, platform-based and temporary employment and the workplace fragmentation and expectations of the employees. The conclusion, however, from the findings suggests that if the membership decreases, so does the need for collective representation.

Keywords: Trade Unions, Collective Bargaining, Labour Relations, Workplace Representation, Union Membership