The argument in this chapter is that union innovation, particularly in relation to union renewal, can be examined through a three-part framework, with unions at the core. First, the foundation of trade unionism involves building a practice of collectivity. Over time, unions have forged ways of organizing and operating, shaped by and shaping the political, economic, and social context in which unions act. Second, while there is often a tension between the established ways that unions organize and operate, it is also the case that 'new' or distinctive forms of solidarity may be necessary to develop awareness and construct strategies to address economic and social change. Third, unions face tensions between the pursuit of goals related to 'vested interests' and/or 'social justice'. Such goals are defined by and formed in relation to the specific circumstances and contexts in which unions organize and operate.
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