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Dr Sebastian Jakubowski
ORCID: 0000-0003-2689-7672

PhD, DSc, is a graduate of the Faculty of Law and Administration at the University of Wrocław. His research interests include labor law, social security, economics, pension systems, economic policy, issues related to economic transformation in Central and Eastern Europe, and the economic analysis of law. He is professionally affiliated with the Department of Economic
Policy at the University of Wrocław. Between 2009 and 2011, he served as the Chair of the Trade Union of Academic
Teachers at the University of Wrocław, and subsequently as a board member and Vice-Chair of the union.

 
DOI: 10.33226/0032-6186.2025.10.3
JEL: J51, J52, J58, K31

This article examines the permissibility of proxy voting during decision-making body meetings in trade unions. The analysis concludes that de lege lata, proxy participation and voting are legally admissible unless explicitly prohib­ited by the union’s statutes. However, the study highlights that the excessive use of proxy mechanisms risks enabling small, concentrated groups to dominate decision-making processes, thereby undermining internal union democra­cy. Furthermore, the article explores the potential of elec­tronic communication tools as an alternative to traditional proxy practices. Such digital solutions could enhance ac­cessibility and engagement of rank-and-file union mem­bers who are unable to attend meetings in person, foster­ing broader participation and strengthening democratic governance within labor organizations.

Keywords: trade union; voting; plenipotentiary; democracy