Social Dialogue and Democracy in the Workplace ― Trade Union and Employer Perspectives from Turkey

This book focuses on the experience of social dialogue in Turkey, which is a European Union candidate country. It argues that social dialogue constitutes one of the fundamental pillars of European social model and therefore should be analysed not only at the supranational level but also at the national, sectoral and workplace levels. The book critically examines social dialogue processes and mechanisms in Turkey at various levels, with focus on the workplace because it is shaped by socio-cultural elements which contain many variables. The book also identifies the shortcomings and structural impediments of social dialogue, and provides an empirically grounded theoretical explanation of social dialogue in Turkey. In the process, the book explains and clarifies key concepts to help readers grasp important points relevant to social dialogue, and contains interviews with social partners to take into consideration their views and recommendations on social dialogue. These in-depth interviews also provide a rare insight into the dynamics of social dialogue on the ground. By looking at social dialogue at various levels, the book offers a balanced view of its strengths and weaknesses in Turkey. This book is a valuable tool for students, academics and researchers interested in understanding the complex dynamics of social dialogue and workplace relations in Turkey.

Dr. Erdem Cam is an Associate Professor of Social Policy in Turkey. He received his Bachelor's degree in Labour Economics and Industrial Relations from Gazi University and his Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in the same field from Ankara University. He was also a visiting Ph.D. Research Student at the University of Leicester between 2006 and 2007 and a Visiting Ph.D. Research Fellow at the Bangor University between 2009 and 2010 and a Visiting Academics at the Queen Mary, University of London in 2017. Dr. Cam is an Editor in Chief, Co-Editor, Editorial Board Member and Advisory Board Member of several journals in the field of labour relations and social policy. He is also an author of several refereed articles, books and book chapters in Turkish and English.