To browse Academia. The article examines the evolution of port labor relations in Le Havre between and , highlighting the various reforms and developments that led to the labor law, often referred to as the "charter of dockers' rights. The study contextualizes Le Havre's significance as a major French port and explores the historical transition from guild-like associations to modern labor relations.
A historical examination of British dock workers and the effects so far of the recent revolutionary changes. This study examines the impact of demands for labor flexibility on the peculiar post-World War II labor regimes in the ports of Antwerp and Hamburg. These labor regimes included the formation of monopolistic pools of unionized dockworkers, which guaranteed companies a steady supply of experienced personnel and an elementary form of job security for registered workers.
The study argues that dockworkers were able to more or less defend the pool system. However, a "market" labor control regime developed for logistical workers outside the confines of these ports, in the immediate vicinity of these ports as well as in Vlissingen, a new port near Antwerp. Vlissingen has become particularly important for the handling of perishable fruit, such as bananas, whose handling requires a high degree of flexibility.
The research is guided by the power resources approach and the concept of labor control regimes. It includes field visits and expert interviews.
Although strikes on the waterfront are now rare, the Liverpool dock dispute is indicative of how deregulation of the dockland labour market has compelled operators to cut ever more deeply into labour costs, and casualise the employment relationship.
