Strategies of union revitalization in Spain: Negotiating change and fragmentation

Spanish unions have pursued various strategies in their attempt to revitalize. Political action has been of particular importance, but collective bargaining and cooperation between the two major union confederations have also been significant factors. We argue that the broader political context and historical legacies are crucial in explaining unions' strategic choices. In particular, we look at the tensions between the unions' institutional role in industrial relations and a fragmented civil society and labour market. Further, the search for a new union identity needs to be understood in the context of the interests of employers. While the unions have been innovative in devising new strategies, the measures of success are still inconclusive.