UNDER PRESSURE: TRADE UNIONISM IN THE ERA OF PEJOTIZATION AND PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS IN THE WORKPLACE sindicalismo na era da pejotização e das doenças psíquicas no trabalho

Abstract

This research examines the contemporary challenges faced by unions in a labor scenario marked by the pejotization of workers, the increase in mental illnesses, and the institutional weakening resulting from the decision of the Federal Supreme Court (STF) on the optional union contribution. These factors have significantly impacted the ability of unions to represent and defend the interests of workers, compromising their effectiveness in promoting fair and safe working conditions. By weakening employment relationships, pejotization reduces labor rights and exposes workers to greater risks of exploitation and abuse. At the same time, the increase in mental illnesses in the workplace represents a complex challenge, aggravated by the scarcity of resources and specialized knowledge to deal with this problem. The STF decision, by making union contributions optional, generated a profound financial and organizational impact, weakening the structure of unions and limiting their ability to act in collective bargaining and in the defense of labor rights. In this context, the research investigates the strategies adopted by unions to face these emerging challenges, seeking to strengthen their representativeness and effectiveness. Methodologically, the study is based on a qualitative approach, through a bibliographic review of relevant works and scientific articles. The analysis highlights the need for policies and practices that address both structural issues, such as the institutional weakening of unions, and emerging issues, such as job insecurity and mental health in the workplace.