Analyzing the Role of Strategic Communication in Mitigating Employee Activism: A Study of Ghana’s Public Sector

Abstract

The dynamics of employee activism within public sector organizations pose significant challenges for strategic communication and organizational management. In Ghana’s public sector, employee activism is a growing phenomenon that necessitates a strategic approach to fostering mutual relationships between employees and employers, thereby mitigating potential conflicts. This study aims to identify key communication protocols, leadership approaches, and institutional mechanisms that can effectively manage conflicts and transform employee activism into a constructive force for organizational development. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research employed a descriptive survey design. The first phase involved administering both electronic and manual questionnaires to 200 public sector employees across various union groups. This was followed by in-depth qualitative interviews with 10 key government representatives, union leaders, and labor experts. The study seeks to uncover strategic communication interventions that can mediate employee activism by establishing transparent dialogue channels, addressing employee concerns, and promoting participatory decision-making. Findings revealed that 97% of participants identified remuneration issues, poor working conditions, strikes, petitions, and social media mobilization as the primary causes and forms of employee activism in Ghana’s public sector. To manage activism, public sector organizations primarily rely on stakeholder meetings, employee surveys, town hall meetings, and resolution timelines as communication strategies and evaluation mechanisms. The study recommends enhancing employee participation in policy creation and decision-making processes within public organizations. Establishing joint management-employee committees to address workplace policies, development, and welfare concerns can foster employee ownership and reduce the likelihood of activism.