Arvand Mirsafian: Workers and Technology: Trade Unionism, Rationalization, and Labour Market Policy in Sweden 1920–1950

Abstract

This dissertation analyses the dynamics between trade unions, technological change, and labour market policies in Sweden, focusing specifically on the Metal Workers’ Union (Metall) from 1920 to 1950. By exploring archival materials, the study reveals how workers actively responded to and influenced technological changes and industrial rationalization, thereby shaping Sweden’s labour market policies.

A significant portion of the dissertation examines the internal deliberations within Metall, highlighting the divergent viewpoints between the union leadership and rank-and-file members. These discussions, revolving around strategies to navigate employer-initiated rationalization efforts, reflected a spectrum of views. While the leadership often advocated for rationalization to foster class cooperation, the rank-and-file typically maintained a critical stance. The tensions over rationalization peaked during the major metalworkers’ strike of 1945, leading to agreements establishing a regulatory framework across Swedish industries.

The findings underscore that workers were not passive recipients of technological change but were instrumental in negotiating the terms of rationalization, influencing the evolution of the Swedish labour market. For instance, the dissertation highlights the establishment of central institutions in the 1940s that reinforced class cooperation in matters relating to rationalization.

In conclusion, this dissertation posits that the strategical response of the trade union movement to rationalization was crucial in shaping the Swedish labour market model in the 20th century.