Abstract
D. Litt. et Phil. (Human Resources)
Labour relations in South Africa is characterized by instability and is intensified by the negative influence of the external environment. Against this background the strategic management of labour relations was investigated as a possible means to positively influence labour relations in South Africa. A model for the strategic management of labour relations was developed and it was concluded that it is essential that the mentioned model be followed in South Africa. A detail theoretical and empirical analysis was done to
determine the extent of the influence of the economy, politics, the social environment, trade unions, employer organizations, the juridical environment and personnel related aspects and practices on labour relations. The empirical data were gathered by means of a structured questionnaire from respondents working in the personnel field. The main findings of the study indicated that the external environment will have a profound effect on labour relations in near future. Unemployment, population growth, housing, the right and left wing political parties and inflation were identified as the aspects which will probably have the most negative influence on labour relations in the future. Various personnel management aspects and practices were identified which might have a positive influence on labour relations: communication, training, labour relations
training, equal opportunities, social responsibility, participative schemes and induction.
One of the main conclusions of this study was that the extent of the influence of the external and internal environment continuously be monitored by companies and that
a strategic plan for the managing of labour relations be developed.