This article builds on the notion of governance to analyze a labour market phenomenon that addresses a critical interface between bipartite and tripartite cooperation in South Africa. It examines one significant example of successful bipartite cooperation in support of national level tripartite dialogue around social and economic issues. In doing so, this article assesses the contribution of the Millennium Labour Council (MLC) to labour peace and how this institution interfaces with the main national social dialogue institution, the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC). This article provides empirical evidence to support the point of view that constructive labour-management cooperation can fortify tripartite dialogue in its contribution to labour market governance and, indirectly, national level governance. This article emphasizes the importance of strong and independent workers’ and employers’ organizations in advancing the contribution of tripartite cooperation to national socioeconomic development.
International Journal of Comparative Labour Law and Industrial Relations