Our analysis builds on the debate by comparing the impact of insider and outsider attitudes on union positions. Dualization theory argues that unions reflect dominant members - usually insiders - while the solidarity approach sees unions backing all vulnerable groups, regardless of dominant member opinion. We argue that the picture is more complex. Unions do care about insider as well as outsider member attitudes and they take both the level of union membership and level of union participation (e.g. discussions, meetings) into account. Each class in the workforce displays different patterns of membership and participation. We argue that these patterns determine influence on union position rather than pure ideology. We define six different class groups of insiders and outsiders according to their skill levels (low, medium, high), employment sector and occupation. If a particular class group is going to shape unions positions, two conditions must be met: (1) high union membership and (2) high union participation. The absence of either condition reduces the influence of the class group. In our study, only two groups satisfied both conditions: blue-collar workers (low-skilled insiders) and low-service functionaries (low-skilled outsiders). We therefore formed the hypothesis that their views have most influence on union positions. We used survey data from the German Internet Panel to determine class groups and their positions on unemployment benefits and labour market regulation. Macro-level data from the Reform Monitor on Political Conflict was used to determine the stance of six different unions. We observed the strongest correlations with union positions for low-skilled insiders and low-skilled outsiders and we suggest that if these groups change their views, union positions are likely to shift accordingly - reflecting both the logic of membership and participation. In addition, a general trend towards dissatisfaction with welfare state reforms by trade unions was evident after the general election in 2016. Since the reform of unemployment benefits was highly salient, we note that salient campaign topics may strongly affect post-election union positions.
Prof. Claudius Wagemann from Department 03 will assume the chairmanship of ¿´Æ¬Èí¼þ's Accreditation Commission in the summer semester 2025. Learn about his motivations and goals in an extensive interview.
"I look forward to making a practical contribution to ensuring that students at ¿´Æ¬Èí¼þ can complete their studies successfully," explains Wagemann, while also sharing personal insights into his own student years and career path.
The Accreditation Commission ensures the quality of all university degree programs and supports their further development. Prof. Viera Pirker, Vice President for Studies and Teaching, emphasizes the importance of this work and welcomes Wagemann's willingness to take on the chairmanship.