These trends make trade unions and tripartite structures more important than ever, not only in protecting workers’ rights, but also in helping workers cope with the disruptions brought about by technological change and business restructuring. It suggests that. Even ‘gig’ workers employed by online platform companies will soon have union-like representation in Singapore, recognizing the need for greater bargaining power for these workers. .
Companies should view trade unions as partners in business transformation, helping them adapt to new work requirements while protecting the well-being and interests of workers. This provides the best opportunity to achieve win-win results for both employers and workers.
Businesses and unions must evolve together
To achieve this, both companies and unions need to be proactive in anticipating the impact of technology and other drivers on the nature of work and taking proactive steps to help employees adapt to change. must be. For example, NTUC Deputy Secretary-General Patrick Tey recently highlighted the need for a “just transition” for workers as businesses adapt to new obligations arising from climate change.
Singapore’s advantage of scale is that all major companies here have important interactions with government ministries and regulators. These are relationships that go beyond permit applications and other commercial needs.
It is common to consult businesses before introducing new policies, whether sector-specific or economy-wide initiatives. Many companies also take advantage of government grants and programs to strengthen their capabilities and workforce.
Companies that want to continue operating here know that it is best to cooperate with the authorities. This goes beyond formal laws and regulations to enable the government and NTUC to guide businesses to responsible behavior and deliver win-win outcomes for employers and workers. This is often faster and more effective than dragging the company to court or resorting to legal means to enforce an outcome.
Singapore is rightly proud of its tripartite system, which has been cultivated over decades. However, for the country’s continued economic and social progress in the foreseeable future, it must continue to evolve to meet new needs.
Terence Ho is Associate Professor of Practice at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. He is the author of Governing Well: Reflections on Singapore and Beyond (2023).