An alternative union movement by Larry Gambone, The Republic, Vancouver
A new labour movement is developing in Europe which may have an important impact in Canada. It is called the 'alternative union movement' and it has developed largely in response to the failure of orthodox trade unionism to counter the ravages of globalization.
What characterizes this movement is the use of direct democracy, local autonomy for unions, and a strong stance on the environment, peace and minority rights. While traditional unions encourage consumerism and an increase to governmental power, all the while never really challenging capitalism, the new movement is anti-consumerist and promotes a vision of a cooperative, self-managed economy.