Summary
In Sweden, 70 car mechanics are on strike against carmaker Tesla, seeking the right for their union, IF Metall, to negotiate pay and conditions on their behalf. The strike, which began in October 2023, is rooted in Swedish industrial traditions that prioritize collective agreements, a practice Tesla CEO Elon Musk opposes. Tesla has hired replacement workers, maintaining its operations in Sweden despite union action.
Key Facts
- 70 car mechanics in Sweden are striking against Tesla for union negotiation rights.
- The strike began in October 2023 and has lasted two years.
- Tesla CEO Elon Musk opposes unions, stating they create negativity.
- Most Swedish workers (70%) are union members and 90% have collective agreements.
- Tesla hired new workers to replace strikers, a move rare since the 1930s in Sweden.
- The strike centers on the right for unions like IF Metall to negotiate terms.
- Tesla has not engaged with the union's requests for a collective agreement.
