Recode Decode: Why workers need to be part of the conversation about UBI and artificial intelligence

Union Decline

The decline of union power in America has significantly impacted worker rights and compensation. Steven Greenhouse argues that worker power has reached its lowest level since World War II, with corporate power dominating policy discussions and politics 1. Despite low unemployment rates, wages for the average worker have stagnated since the 1970s, with corporate profits soaring instead of being used for wage increases 2.

Corporate profits are doing great. And instead of pumping their money into wage increases that they promised, they pumped $800 billion last year into stock buybacks.

--- Steven Greenhouse

This imbalance highlights the need for stronger worker bargaining power and unionization efforts.

   

Fight for $15

The Fight for $15 movement emerged as a response to wage stagnation and the need to improve worker livelihoods. Initiated by the service employees union, it aimed to raise the minimum wage from $7.25 to $15, arguing that hard-working individuals should be able to support their families 3. Steven Greenhouse highlights the movement's success in mobilizing thousands of fast-food workers across the nation.

We have to lift wages for those at the bottom because so many are struggling.

--- Steven Greenhouse

Additionally, the decline in manufacturing jobs due to globalization and offshoring has further emphasized the need for such movements to address economic disparities 4.