| Abstract: | First, this article fills a gap in the literature by providing a preliminary analysis and history of the trade union movement in Lesotho. Then, more urgently, it addresses more important questions which arise out of the recent initiatives taken towards the proposed formation of a single federation inclusive of all trade unions in the country. In particular, it assesses the extent to which the impetus behind trade union unity flows not from the union movement itself, but from the government. Finally, it concludes with comments upon not just the problems but also the possibilities of trade unionism in a labour reserve economy. Notes, tab. |