Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to establish what factors currently influence trade unions as organisations in South Africa and the European Union and then to compare these factors. To conduct this study a pure literature examination was done. Firstly the levels of trade unionism were established and thereafter the factors contributing to the levels of trade unionism were identified. The difference between a developing country and already developed countries was explained before comparisons were made between South Africa and the European Union. Common factors that influence trade unions as organisations in both the European Union and South Africa include unemployment levels and job insecurity, changes in the employment relationship, work relationships outside the traditional employment relationship and finally the reasons why people join trade unions. Lastly, an interesting finding that emerged was that certain factors influencing trade unions as organisations are unique to specific countries.

Key words: Trade unions, European Union, South Africa, employment relations, labour force, unionism, developing countries.