Discussion 2
Should soldiers be allowed to join unions? (Hint: consider both the
environment and ethics.) Support your answer with a couple of reasons why/why not.
Considering their unique qualities and the significance of their work, military personnel should not be allowed to join labor unions. An important part of the operational organization in the military is the unwavering adherence to orders. The whole organization operates on the principle of No Question Asked, wherein there are no provisions for engaging in strikes, engaging in negotiating with management, or submitting complaints as a way of seeking justice. Unions are reluctant to support the cause because they recognize the military's role in national security. According to
1
, unionization of the armed forces would be incompatible with the military chain of
command, would undermine the role, authority, and position of the commander, and would impair the morale and readiness of the armed forces. Furthermore, such unionization efforts would have a negative impact on military morale and preparedness.
2. Can an employer refuse that a Union is created in an organization? Why or why not?
Companies typically oppose labor unions because they want direct employee contact, and they pay more for having unions. The right to express your views on unionization to your employees is included in the employer's rights against unions, but it is important to do so respectfully. Employers are not permitted to use threats, coercion, or intimidation against their workers in an effort to keep them from forming a union without violating the National Labor Relations Act or NLRA (LaMance, 2023).
There is a thin line between being against unionization and stopping it from happening. If workers are not given the right to form a union, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) may file a lawsuit against the company, finding management guilty of illegal conduct.
3. Is joining a Union free to employees?
There currently exist unions that do not impose any membership fees upon their members, while there are other unions that require employees to pay certain charges to become or stay a member. The amount of dues that unions can collect from employees depends on federal, state, and local laws as well as court decisions,
according to
Union dues
(n.d.), which states that unions and employers can enter into union-security agreements under the NLRA that specify that employees must pay a certain amount of money to the union as a condition of employment.
4. How can this information benefit you in the workplace?
This information helps professionals understand how to create a safe and fair workplace. To make changes, there are many ways. I know how much influence employers have and how to organize a union with my coworkers in case of unfair practices. I know which organization I can contact if I feel threatened or coerced in
