More important, it is a story that deserves to have new chapters written for it, for labor unions are democracy multipliers by their very nature. In the transition from authoritarian political systems to liberal democratic ones in any society that has moved beyond reliance on traditional agriculture, no single factor is more important to sustainable success than trade union movements.

Trade unions produce a unique synergy of economic and political benefits. On the economic side, they ensure that workers gain a fair share of the income their work produces. Thus strong unions reduce stark inequalities within countries—a key goal of U.S. economic development strategies. A more equitable income distribution contributes directly to poverty reduction and, by increasing consumer demand, stimulates greater economic growth.  

On the political side, trade unions make major contributions to producing more vibrant civil societies. They encourage workers to participate in the political process, negotiate with other interest groups, and act as a check on government authority. Unions keep governments accountable by ensuring that the concerns of working people are represented not only in the workplace but in the public debate. They advance the social cohesion vital to democracy by bridging ethnic, religious, racial and gender divisions.