The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) emerged from the anti-apartheid struggle as the largest and most powerful union federation in South Africa. However, since 1994 COSATU has been losing organisational power as hundreds of leaders left for politics and business. Sakhela Buhlungu examines the 'paradox of victory' that confronts COSATU today, exploring COSATU's successes and failures, and considering the long-term implications of its increasing political influence and diminishing organisational power.