Wildcat Strike

Wildcat Strike - A wildcat strike action, is a (illegal) strike action taken by labourers, employers, staff or workers without the authorization of their trade union officials. This is sometimes termed unofficial industrial action,  a key fighting strategy to strong-arm negotiations or force deals. Employers may fire workers participating in them. It is an unauthorized work stoppage with a legal contract in place and still valid. An example would be unions re-negotiating for benefits and/or wage increases. When not authorized by the union, it is illegal technically speaking. For participation employees might/can face termination, offering no legal protection. Work slow-downs, to force employer concessions are commonplace. Methods and type vary, from calling in sick, picketing, with the legal rights to return to work, once the strike is over. Typically when there are safety or representation concerns, feeling the union is not doing enough, members strike out on their own a wildcat strike is called, with no prior notice requirement.