This important book presents an in-depth analysis of the neo-liberal viewpoint on globalization and its impact on labour relations. The policies of states and multinational corporations as well as their effects are analysed from the perspectives of international political economy, institutional economics, cultural studies and industrial relations.The authors analyse the trade union critique, labour market segmentation and the erosion of regulatory practices and standards which give labour some degree of protection. This innovative book combines theoretical analysis with empirical detail and focuses on various sectors of industry such as mining, home appliances, logistic services and the media as well as the main regional blocks of the global economy - Europe, Australia-Asia and America.