What does "wildcat strike" mean?

A wildcat strike refers to an unauthorized work stoppage initiated by workers without the approval or involvement of their labor union. This type of strike typically happens spontaneously, often in response to immediate grievances or working conditions that employees feel need urgent attention. Wildcat strikes can occur despite existing labor agreements or contracts, as they bypass the formal negotiation processes that unions are expected to uphold.

In the context of labor relations, the significance of a wildcat strike lies in the fact that it represents direct action taken by employees who may feel their concerns are not being adequately addressed through official channels. This form of strike can lead to legal challenges for the workers involved and may complicate relations between the union leadership and the membership, as it challenges the authority of the union to represent its members in orderly negotiations. Understanding the concept of wildcat strikes is crucial for analyzing labor dynamics and the ways in which employees assert their rights in the workplace.