It takes two to code: a comparative analysis of collective bargaining and artificial intelligence

What is it about?

The extension of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Algorithmic Management (AM) mechanisms by companies have led to growing demands from unions to regulate its use. This article explores the role of collective bargaining and employee participation mechanisms in regulating AI and algorithms applied by companies. This is done through a comparative analysis of institutional developments at EU-level as well as in four countries belonging to different industrial relations models (Denmark, Germany, Hungary and Spain). The paper shows remarkable differences across countries in the role of social partners and the combination of protective and participative mechanisms used to respond to these challenges, which seem to reinforce prevailing institutional logics. However, the analysis also serves to highlight the limits of existing institutions and practices to cope with the complexity of challenges associated with AI and AM, thus calling for institutional adaptation and additional efforts at regulation at EU and national levels to support collective bargaining.

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Why is it important?

This study is focusing on the Algorithmic Management (AM)use at the traditional workplaces, while the great majority of research on AM related with the platform work.

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