Processes of Globalization of the Chains of Value in the Industry of Wardrobe in Portugal : Implication in the Structures of Work (Procesos De Globalización De Las Cadenas De Valor En La Industria De Vestuario En Portugal: Implicación En Las Estructuras De Trabajo)

The paper examines changes in work in the context of the globalisation process. In a global economy, value chains are becoming more global, more fragmented and longer. Therefore the dynamics of a global change of work can only be understood in the context of restructuring of value chains. The paper will present results from case studies conducted in Portugal for the European research project WORKS (Work Organisation and Restructuring in the Knowledge Society). Aim of the case studies was to examine changes in work organisation and work structures from the perspective of value chain restructuring. Also changes in the use of knowledge and skills as well as demands on flexibility were central issues. The Portuguese case studies focus on the clothing and textile industry, which will be presented as an example for a transforming industry in a global economy