ABSTRACT
The importance of trade unions in the major defining event of French political life, at a time when France is recognised as having the lowest unionisation rate in the industrial world, may seem rather dubious. To some extent, the trade unions themselves were marginal actors in the events surrounding the campaign. The trade unions were happy to portray themselves as outsiders, remaining outside the policy process and influencing politics as autonomous actors. The strike movements allowed them to emphasise their role as social and economic actors rather than political advocates. The year 1995 saw several ‘firsts’ for the French trade union movement. Jacques Chirac’s ability to tune into the mood of the country and turn public discontent to his advantage meant that, once in office, he was able to look to both the trade unions and employers for support for his policies.
