Setting Labour Law's Coverage: Between Universalism and Selectivity

34 Oxford Journal of Legal Studies 543 (2014)

Hebrew University of Jerusalem Legal Research Paper No. 15-25

26 Pages Posted: 7 Feb 2015 Last revised: 30 Sep 2015

See all articles by Guy Davidov

Guy Davidov

Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Faculty of Law

Date Written: December 1, 2013

Abstract

The question of who is (and who should be) covered by labour law is highly contested and often debated. The paper addresses several problems related to the coverage question, and employs some novel concepts as an aid to better understand and analyze these problems. It begins by explaining the different aspects of labour law coverage and how all the branches of government are involved in setting it. It is then argued that we are currently facing a major coverage crisis in labour law. The concepts of universalism and selectivity, long used in the welfare state literature to describe possible methods for the delivery of benefits in terms of their coverage, are introduced and adapted to the labour law context. The paper then proceeds to make several arguments by using this new framework. First, a descriptive-historical argument: During the 20th century there was a development from selectivity to universalism in labour law, and then back to selectivity of a different kind (regressive). Second, a normative argument: A balance must be struck between universalism and selectivity. Several proposals are offered to assist in achieving a better balance compared to the current situation in many countries. Finally, a critical argument: Some proposals to ‘expand’ labour law beyond the confines of the employment relationship are considered, showing the dangers of extreme universalism.

Keywords: Labour Law, Employment Law, Universalism, Selectivity, Legal Coverage

Suggested Citation

Davidov, Guy, Setting Labour Law's Coverage: Between Universalism and Selectivity (December 1, 2013). 34 Oxford Journal of Legal Studies 543 (2014), Hebrew University of Jerusalem Legal Research Paper No. 15-25, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2561175

Guy Davidov (Contact Author)

Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Faculty of Law ( email )

Mt. Scopus
Jerusalem, 91905
Israel

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