What are unions? What do they do? Why?

Trade union renewal, union self-reform and similar issues are hot on the agenda for young trade unionists.What kind of union do we want for the 21st century and beyond?

Union members, many of them young members, have been thinking about the relevance of unions. The majority believe that unions are relevant - especially so in these times. But then they comment on the qualities that they want to see in their unions. They want unions to defend their rights - at work and in the community. They want to see their unions with stronger voices and influence in national, regional and international arenas.

Some leaders and members say that their unions need to be more "business like". And some talk about business unionism. What are the different models of unionism and what do you want your union to look like?

According to an article from the New Unionism Network, Buiness unionism is

Trade Union Renewal and New Unionism

Here's an interesting, informative and thought-provoking web site called New Unionism.

"New unionism is about seeking creative ways to organize internationally to democratize work. Together, these four principles (organizing, internationalism, creativity and workplace democracy) unite us as a network of union activists"

You can also subscribe to the newsletter Work in Progress.

What do you think about the web site? Do you think it can help you as you think about trade union renewal?