This paper outlines some of the challenges faced by trade unions if they are to reverse the decline in membership sustained over the past twenty-five years. The paper comprises four sections. The first section charts the extent of the decline in unionisation in EU member states and the changes in the composition of the unionised workforce. The second section reviews the explanations of the decline, focusing on both the external threats and the inadequacies of union organisation. The third section identifies the challenge faced by unions if they are to increase membership. The fourth section reviews some features of the trade union response to decline and shows that a wide range of reforms have been implemented, although, as yet, they have failed to reverse the decline in membership.

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