Caucus

Meaning & Definition 

A caucus is an enclosed, or private, gathering for a distinct set of individuals to communicate about concerns, share forms of agreement and settle on a collective attitude regarding the issue upon which they will be discussing and negotiating formally at another time. In HR terms, a caucus usually occurs during union assemblies; collective negotiation meetings; grievance processing; and leadership decision making meetings.

Important features Caucus

• Provides an opportunity for employee groups to coordinate prior to negotiation.
• Framework for effective collective bargaining between employee groups and their employer.
• Provides a means for employee groups to discuss sensitive human resources (HR) or workplace topics confidentially.
• Helps to avoid future conflicts by allowing internal clarification of positions.
• Enhances the ability to make informed decisions within committees, councils, or panels on HR matters.

Legal Compliance / Policy / Regulation 

• There is currently no Separate Compliance Statute for a Caucus Meeting to be held.
• The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, provides for the recognition of collective bargaining and meetings between employer and employee representatives, so that meetings of Caucus may also happen.
• The Trade Unions Act, 1926, allows registered trade unions to conduct internal meetings, including Caucus meetings, for its members.