Collaboration (and conflict) in the relations between Trade Unions and the Third Sector

Abstract
This article examines a number of cases of collaboration between Trade Unions and the Third Sector in Valencia. The article examines a number of campaigns in which they have co-operated, the conditions under which these were established and the results which were obtained. It also identifies some sharing of services e.g union provision of legal/employment advice to Third sector organization clients. Also explored are the tensions and disagreements which can occur between the actors in such collaboration.

The article is based on in-depth interviews with union and third sector representatives who have taken part in collaborations and the documentation they have provided.

The principal results of the collaborations have been to increase the visibility of the problems which were the focus of campaigns and, in some cases, achieve government commitment to address them. The joint campaigns resulted also in a consolidation of relations between the two sectors.

Tension on occasion arose between unions and third sector organizations e.g. when unions presented the employees of the third sector organizations, when expectations of what the ‘partner’ could offer were unrealistic.

Key words:

Trade unions, third sector organizations, coalitions, campaigns