Since the early 1980s unions across the advanced capitalist world have witnessed prolonged membership decline, loss of bargaining power in a globalizing context and neo-liberal government policies, and significant decline in strike rates. The recent recession appears to have dealt a further blow to unions. In their analysis of trade union strength in Western Europe the authors argue that whilst the recent economic and political developments have posed serious threats to trade unions, these can also be viewed as opportunities for their revitalization. The re-emergence of tripartite relations between governments, unions and employers, the resurgence of general strikes against government policies and the capacity to mobilize supporters in general strikes are interprted as evidence to the effect that some union movements have recognized the existence of opportunities in the midst of adversity.

Keywords : Recession blow to unions, Trade union strength in Western Europe