An exploration into effective collective bargaining: a case study of public service trade unions in Zambia.
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Date
2025
Authors
Moonga, Hellen, Daka, Harrison
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Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to explore how Public Service trade unions can effectively bargain for terms and conditions of service for employees in Zambia. The objectives of the study included to investigate the factors affecting the bargaining power of the Public Service Unions in Zambia and to propose guidelines that can improve the Collective Bargaining process between Government and Public Service Unions. The qualitative design was used in this study. The study used purposeful and stratified random sampling to select participants. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and was analyzed using the in vivo Software to enable the researcher conduct thematic content analysis of interview transcripts. The study identified major challenges that weaken the bargaining power of unions, such as the multiplicity of unions leading to fragmentation, lack of capacity and skills among union leaders, and political interference and corruption that shift focus away from employee welfare. The study conclusively revealed that unions' lack of coordination and professionalism in managing the collective bargaining process undermined their influence and limited their capacity to secure tangible gains for their members. These persistent issues reflected the broader ineffectiveness of Public Service Unions in navigating government constraints and regulatory challenges, leaving workers' demands largely unmet. Based on the study findings, it is recommended that the
Industrial and Labour Relations Act Cap 269 of the Laws of Zambia should be amended to provide clear guidelines for collective bargaining and prevent multiplicity of trade unions. Further, Trade Unions should invest in capacity building of the union leaders to improve their negotiation skills among others.
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