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

Abstract

This article examines a number of collaborations between Trade Unions and the Third Sector in Valencia in the form of campaigns which they have promoted, the conditions under which these were established and the results which were obtained. Also explored are the tensions and disagreements which can occur between the actors in such collaborations. 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. It is a largely descriptive examination. The principal results of the collaborations have been to make more visible the problems which were the focus of campaigns, in some cases government commitment to address them, an improvement in the political climate and the consolidation of the coalitions. Tension arose between unions and third sector organizations when their collaboration was affected by the representative role of the trade unions.