II‑ Unions – The LO
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Confederation of Swedish Trade Unions
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Founded 1898 as SAP affiliate
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Membership
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LO probably the most centralized &
powerful union center among the
western nations
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High powered economic research unit
Founded 1898 as SAP affiliate since SAP has served as party and trade union federation
Separated 1909
Membership
19 affiliated unions - number shrinking due to mergers
About 2.2 million members - 46% women
Almost all blue collar workers in industrial unions
LO probably the most centralized & powerful union center among the western nations.
LO authority includes right to
Determine internal structure of unions
Sit in on industry level negotiations
High powered economic research unit
Has strongly influenced government policies as well as union policies