It is widely believed that trade unions depend on a bond of trust. That trust begins with workers’ expectation that their organisation’s leadership will act on their behalf: telling the truth and delivering results.

In trade unions, the bond of trust is the mutual reliance between unions, their members and management. It is the essential working relationship that enables successful collective bargaining, conflict resolution and the long-term stability of both the workforce and the business.

This bond rests on the observance of several basic tenets, beginning with acting in good faith. There should never be even the appearance of conduct that is not in the best interests of members and the organisation. It must be clear that decisions are not driven by self-interest. Collaboration, rather than hostility, is fundamental to maintaining trust.