PLOS Statement on Unionization Effort in the US

PLOS is committed to openness and equity to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace. As a nonprofit mission-driven publisher spread across four countries, we recognize that our 175+ global staff are the reason behind our success, and following the announcement that 34 of our US colleagues have called to unionize, we would like to acknowledge the important role that unions play in improving employees’ working conditions.  

The formation of a US-based Union is a significant step for the organization and one that requires time to consider. We believe that all colleagues across our global workforce deserve to be part of this conversation, as the unionization of a section of regional staff has the potential to disproportionately influence our global organization. 

We would like to take the time to understand the complexities of this action and therefore have  elected not to voluntarily recognize the Union at this stage. We will move forward with due process for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in the US to ensure we continue a meaningful and constructive dialogue on this important issue. 

We remain committed to working with all of our staff to ensure PLOS is a thriving, engaged environment for all.