Le(s) sens de l’autonomie à l’Unsa

Abstract

The article explores the different ways in which Union Nationale des Syndicats Autonomes (UNSA or National Union of Autonomous Trade Unions) represent autonomy. It is based on an original questionnaire involving more than 70 interviews. The notion of autonomy is central to UNSA, being the factor that renders its model distinctive and ensures its particular brand. Having said that, a range of representations exists regarding what autonomy actually means to union members. Four member profiles are defined here to enhance understanding of the different conceptions of autonomy. The analysis questions the way in which a sense of autonomy is produced; how it is administered by UNSA entrepreneurs; and the reaction it may receive from more recent members who bring with them - to some extent at least - new conceptions of union representation.

Keywords

• Unionism
• autonomy
• Unsa (Union nationale des syndicats autonomes)