Trade union membership retention in Europe: The challenge of difficult times

Throughout most of Europe, trade union membership is in decline, despite a vast range of initiatives intended to reverse this decline. This article explores why members retain their union membership, through surveys conducted in 14 union organizations in 12 countries. It highlights the importance of workplace representation for the provision of support to members. The article also assesses how the reasons that underpin membership retention might be incorporated into union organizing and renewal strategies.