What are secondary boycotts?

Secondary boycotts refer to actions taken by a union or a group of workers against a company that is not directly involved in a labor dispute. This practice is intended to exert pressure on the primary employer, hoping that the secondary company, which may have a business relationship with the primary employer, will help in resolving the dispute.

For instance, if a union is on strike against Company A for unfair labor practices, they might call for a boycott of Company B, which supplies goods or services to Company A. The goal is to create economic pressure on Company A by involving another entity that relies on or supports Company A, thereby amplifying the impact of the labor action.

This concept emphasizes the role of solidarity in labor relations and the strategic use of all available resources to achieve favorable conditions for the striking workers. It is important to note that secondary boycotts can become a legal issue under certain labor laws, which may restrict unions from targeting a third party not involved in the direct conflict.

The other choices, while relevant to labor relations, do not accurately define secondary boycotts. Strikes aimed directly at an employer focus on the direct confrontation rather than involving a secondary entity. Negotiations to settle a dispute represent a collaborative approach rather than a confront