Editor's Preface
Over the past year we have witnessed both the beginnings of a
recovery from and the continuing effects of the financial crisis
that has dogged the world economy and characterised employment
relations over the last several years. All signs indicate that
these trends are likely to continue for the foreseeable future. The
'Year in Review' and 'Outlook' sections of nearly
every chapter in this edition detail efforts by countries to
address the continuing effects of the economic downturn. For
example, in an apparent effort to increase competitiveness and
stimulate business, and, in particular, to battle unemployment, a
number of governments have made or are considering efforts to
decrease financial burdens on businesses, including the costs of
labour. In New Zealand, for example, recent amendments to the
Employment Relations Act, including with regard to trial periods,
union access and the test for unjustified dismissal, were designed
to provide employers
