Participation in the decision making process: a study in a solidarity-based economy association

Abstract

Participation in the decision making process was studied in the scenario of a solidarity-based economy association where work is valued above capital; work relations are anchored in self-management and solidarity is cultivated as a fundamental principle. Exploratory research was done in one of the thirteen associations responsible for solid waste salvage in the Integrated Solid Waste System implemented by the Porto Alegre City Hall in 1989 according to the solidarity-based economy principle. However analysis disclosed an autocratic model of management and limited commitment by associates. Work was considered to be a means of survival, no different from any other. Since relations among the workers are characterized by mistrust and competition, these may be the origin of the high turnover and low productivity evident. Conclusions cite an awareness of the complexity involved in recovering social relations.