Abstract.In the first paper the authors make a critical analysis of the interpretations and models generally used forit caso italiano(the Italian Case) and propose explanations that are not one‐sided, and that take into account all the elements of continuity which characterised the various phases of these last twenty years.The second paper examines the institutional features of the Italian industrial relations system, and underlines its ‘constant characteristic’. that is. its under‐institutionalisation. The author emphasises the negative effects of these institutional shortcomings, and shows concern that the much exalted ‘flexibility’ of the Italian system could be detrimental, rather than positive, as it derives from these shortcomings.The note by Guido Romagnoli. attempts to use some theoretical statements on union behaviour, as the key to interpret the events of the Italian case. The author then indicates some aspects and reasons for the crisis of Italian unions.The fourth paper examines the relationship of the unions with the Italian political system over the last twenty years. This article suggests that it is characterised by considerable continuity in stabilising this political system, both in phases of strength and in times of weakness. This stabilising role has. however, not been reciprocated; in fact, not only has the political system not stabilised the unions and industrial relations, but has become a major obstacle to their strategic reorientation.The last paper in this group of essays on theAutunno Caldooffers what could be termed an ‘institutional’ explanation of union continuity, analysing the various phases of collective mobilisation. political exchange and flexibility, and examines the relationships between the social actors during these phases.The selection of papers published here isin memoriamof our colleague and friend Guido Romagnoli, who suddenly died shortly after the conference. For this reason it includes the outline that he presented at that conference which he could not develop into