Beyond identity: Trade union positioning on just transition in Quebec's construction industry

This article challenges the assumed link between Hyman's theory of trade union identity (2001) and union positioning on just transition policies. Through a sectoral case study, we question the correspondence established in the literature between union identity and just transition when excluding the influence of contextual and sectoral differences. This analysis uses unions in the Canadian province of Quebec's construction industry to focus on differences emerging from organisational identities and internal structures. We compare the results with theoretical work and empirical ones studying union organisations in different countries and, or activity sectors. While some unions align with the literature, others exhibit a disconnect between identity and action. Notably, some market-oriented unions demonstrate an affirmative position on the just transition, while others remain indifferent. We also discuss the role of the state as perceived by unions as a pivotal entity in advancing just transition policies. The findings suggest that multiple factors beyond union identity influence trade union positioning on the just transition, necessitating further exploration to unravel these elements.