Beyond positive attitudes: Preconditions for union membership – evidence from Czechia

This article examines the attitudinal foundations of union membership among non-unionised employees in Czechia, set against the continuing decline of unionisation across OECD and Central and Eastern European countries. Using representative data from the UNIONS2023 survey ( N = 1220), cluster and correspondence analyses identify distinct attitudinal profiles and their socio-political correlates. Results show that 24% of employees view unions positively, 38% reject them, and the remainder are ambivalent or indifferent. Positive orientations are linked to left-wing identification, family or workplace exposure to unions and higher education. Only 11% express willingness to join, driven not only by ideological affinity but also by job dissatisfaction, indicating that instrumental motives are crucial in translating pro-union attitudes into membership intent.