Unionism in Canada and the United States in the 21(st) century - The prospects for revival

Based on a review and comparison of recent developments in organizing, coll ective bargaining and political action, this paper considers the potential for union revival in Canada and the United States. Although unions have dev oted considerable energy and resources to new initiatives, the overall evid ence leads us to generally pessimistic conclusions. The level and direction of union density rates indicates the two labour movements lack the institu tional frameworks and public policies to achieve sustained revival. Signifi cant gains in union membership and density levels will require nothing less than a paradigm shift in the industrial relations systems-a broadening of the scope and depth of membership recruitment, workplace representation and political activities.