Women’s quotas and their effects: A comparison of Austrian and German trade unions

Abstract:

This article discusses the introduction of women’s quotas in the Austrian confederation ÖGB and the German union ver.di, drawing on interviews with union officials, documentary analysis and statistical data.

In both cases, quotas increased women’s representation as lay delegates and full-time officials, and also affected union identity and image, equality bargaining and political activity.

Overall, women’s quotas in unions had a positive effect both on women’s representation and on organizational outcomes, indicating that more generally, changes in union governance can contribute to revitalization.