Strikes

A strike is a collective action in which workers suspend or refuse their work to press an employer to meet demands related to pay, conditions, or terms of employment. Strikes are typically organized by labor unions or worker associations and are used as a mechanism of bargaining when negotiations fail.

Common forms include a walkout, where employees stop work; a work-to-rule, where workers perform only required tasks; and picketing, sit-down or slowdowns intended to deter production without fully abandoning the site. Strikes may be parallel to or accompanied by sympathy actions in support of other workers.

Legal status and procedures vary widely by country. In many jurisdictions, strikes conducted by a registered union under statutory rules are protected, though essential services, public safety, and national security often face restrictions. Employers may respond with disciplinary measures, temporary layoffs, or lockouts; courts may issue injunctions or mandate binding arbitration to end a dispute.

Strikes have played a central role in labor movements since the 19th century, contributing to wage floors, shorter hours, and safer conditions. They can disrupt production and have broad economic and political effects, but they also reinforce collective bargaining and workplace democracy by signaling worker priorities.

They relate to labor unions, collective bargaining, and international standards such as ILO conventions.