The New Trade Union Model: A Strategic Action Field Approach to the Trade Union Organization of Umbrella Company Workers in Sweden

Abstract: This thesis analyses a new trade union model for umbrella company workers and the changes in the field of trade unions in Sweden. By conceptualizing trade unions as collective actors within strategic action fields I describe and explain how a small independent trade union and challenger in the field, Säljarnas Riksförbund, has managed to construct a new trade union model for umbrella company workers that differs from the traditional model used by the incumbent Unionen, the largest trade union in Sweden. Säljarnas Riksförbund challenges what a trade union club is and Unionen’s position in the field. Through two iterations of interviews with key representatives and document analysis of central documents, this case study provides empirical findings of how the new trade union model differs from the traditional model and how it poses a challenge for Unionen. There are three main findings, 1) The new trade union model has a divided organizational structure and works both as a part of the employer organization and the trade union and acts for both organizations, 2) The new trade union model operates primarily toward the state, unemployment insurance funds, and umbrella company workers. 3) The new trade union model organizes its members based on the constructed form of work, umbrella company work which challenges the traditional principle of organizing based on industrial or occupational belonging. The study finds that the incumbent and challenger did not perceive the stakes in the field similarly, the internal governance units have not hindered the emerging challenge, and a change in a related field has not only destabilized the field in question but also invaded it. An episode of contention is emerging and the rules in the field are in flux.