Alberta's Union Advantage: Wages, Equity, and the Power of Collective Bargaining

This report examines the "union advantage" in Alberta, demonstrating how unionization consistently leads to higher wages, superior benefits, and greater workplace safety compared to non-unionized sectors. The analysis reveals that unionized workers earn significantly more per hour on average—a gap that is particularly pronounced for women, young workers, and those in lower-wage roles, effectively helping to reduce income inequality. Beyond compensation, the findings highlight that unionized environments provide more robust job security and formal grievance procedures, which empower employees to address workplace issues without fear of retaliation. Ultimately, the report argues that strong unions not only benefit individual members but also support the broader economy by setting higher labor standards and increasing the overall purchasing power of the workforce.

Credit: Parkland Institute

Date: 2025

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