European trade unionism

The European Trade Union Confederation is the only body representing the majority of trade union members across Europe, working with the EU institutions as a formal social partner.

The ETUC was set up in 1973 when it became clear that unions in Europe needed a democratic structure to enable them to express a united position on behalf of workers. It now comprises 89 national trade union confederations in 39 countries, plus 10 European trade union federations.