This paper discusses the various factors that impact upon the context of trade unionism in Zimbabwe. Much as the leadership of the trade unions may want to implement their programs without hindrance, it has dawned on them that there is a complex web of variables that affect the operations of trade unions the world over. Trade unions are grappling with a labour market transformation that is taking many different forms. Technological progress, the greening of the economy, demographic change and ever-intensifying global competition are profoundly changing the landscape in which trade unions are looking to represent workers' interests. To these challenges we can add the long-standing preponderance of informality. Multiple crises, including COVID-19, have severely tested the capacity and resilience of the social partners. Today, legal restrictions on union activity and violations of trade union rights, such as the right to organize and bargain collectively for all workers, are widespread. Unsurprisingly, trade union membership is lowest where trade union rights are restricted.