Unions in Big Tech: New unions forming inside Silicon Valley

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• February 9, 2022

Insight summary

The landscape of the US tech industry is shifting as employees increasingly advocate for unionization. This movement challenges the traditional power dynamics, potentially leading to more democratic workplaces and stricter regulations on content moderation for safer digital spaces. The rise of unions could also bring about new labor policies, improved pay and benefits, ethical business practices, and environmentally friendly initiatives.

Unions in Big Tech context

Historically, technology companies in the US have been anti-union, but that perspective appears to be changing. Some major companies are seeing their employees push for unionization, some of them successfully. This push comes from both blue-collar and white-collar workers who have a unified set of concerns. Despite some companies’ attempts to push back against these organization efforts, the conversation about unions in tech continues to grow.

US laws generally favor companies over unions, and Silicon Valley has traditionally been anti-union. According to some industry leaders, following union work rules would put them at a business disadvantage. Additionally, technology companies have often relied on a large contractor workforce to downsize quickly without appearing to have massive layoffs.

Silicon Valley culture prides itself on meritocracy, an ideology that industry advocates argue makes unions unnecessary. Meanwhile, labor activists refuse to recognize this view, and some are pushing back against the growing adoption of gig and contractor labor, in favor of jobs with benefits and standards protected by unions.

Disruptive impact

The establishment of Big Tech unions could potentially lead to a significant shift in the power dynamics within the industry. Traditionally, decision-making processes have been concentrated in the hands of a few executives. However, with the rise of unions, employees could gain a more substantial voice, leading to more democratic workplaces that reflect the collective interests of the workforce.

The influence of unions could also extend beyond the confines of individual companies, impacting the broader tech industry and society as a whole. For instance, unions could push for stricter regulations on content moderation, leading to a decrease in harmful content on digital platforms. This move could foster a safer and more inclusive online environment for all users. Furthermore, unions could challenge unethical business practices, prompting companies to adopt more socially responsible behaviors.

The rise of Big Tech unions could require new labor policies and regulations. Governments may need to ensure that these unions operate within legal frameworks and that the rights of both employees and employers are protected. This trend could lead to a more balanced and equitable tech industry, benefiting not only the workers but also the consumers and the wider society. 

Implications of unions in Big Tech

Wider implications of unionization in Big Tech may include:

• Potential improvements in workforce pay, benefits, and management practices that may spread to the network of suppliers/companies that serve major Silicon Valley companies.


• New worker and workplace legislation that amplifies the gains made by Silicon Valley unions.


• The potential moderation of business practices and perceived social excesses pursued by large tech companies.


• More stringent ethical guidelines for tech companies, which could influence their relationships with controversial clients and impact global politics.


• A potential decrease in the overuse of natural resources, as unions advocate for more environmentally friendly practices in tech companies.


• The development of new technologies that prioritize user safety and privacy, leading to a more secure digital landscape.


• Increased pushback against Big Tech malpractices from younger employees, particularly Gen Zers.

Questions to consider

• What are your thoughts about the standard Silicon Valley stance on unions? 


• Do you feel that unions can address the structural problems their members raise?


• Should media and social media companies police the content they permit on their platforms?