Practices and Representations of Gender Mixing and Non-Mixing within the CSC and the Fgtb (Belgian trade unions)

For an extended period, the Belgian trade unions regarded feminist concerns as a non-priority within the context of class struggle. In Belgium, however, trade unions occupy a pivotal role within the social movement. Over the past two decades, these large structures have established bodies responsible for 'gender equality'. In Belgium and across Europe, the trade unions have adopted a gender-mixed approach, both in their gender equality bodies and in the 'feminist' groups in which works council representatives are organised. However, in the feminist movements in Belgium, the choice of gender-neutral reflection and organisation is a dominant practice.

This study examines the practices and representations of gender mixing and gender non-mixing within the Confederation of Christian Trade Unions (CSC) and the General Federation of Labour of Belgium (FGTB). Gender non-mixity will be conceptualised as one strategy among a range of trade union actions, which Belgian trade unionists both deliberately and inadvertently employ.

An inductive methodology was employed, combining interviews and observations with a review of the relevant multidisciplinary literature. Two case studies were conducted: the Comité Eliane-Vogel-Polsky (FGTB Brussels) and the Ligue des Travailleuses domestiques avec et sans papiers (CSC Brussels), both of which are organised on a non-mixed-gender basis. These examples demonstrate how Belgian trade unions are innovating in their practices through the promotion of feminist ideals.

The findings demonstrate that the creation of non-mixed gender spaces facilitates the emancipatory potential of gender-mixed spaces, particularly for those in subordinate positions. This research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the intertwining of gender and class dynamics within the trade union context, and encourages trade unions to prioritise investment in feminist struggles.