Back in your home country, unions are a force to be reckoned with, especially concerning workers’ rights. However, in Japan it is not uncommon for employees to without union representation.

It might be time for you to investigate joining the General Union.

At the General Union, all types of workers are represented. Undoubtedly the majority of those workers are from English teaching-related professions, but anyone, whether part-time or full-time, can become a member of the General Union.

What steps can you take to help recognize your rights as a worker? Well, with the assistance of experienced Union members (Japanese and foreign) you and your co-workers can form a branch of the union within your company to achieve substantial improvements in conditions. Of course “the size and determination of your branch are both important considerations in deciding what improvements your branch can achieve“(General Union website).

To get the unionization ball rolling, it may require a lot of legwork, but remember, union professionals can help you along the way. Also, consider this: employers can fire non-union employees for complaining about their pay or conditions. However, trade union law protects employees for being dismissed for these same reasons. It is a rare occasion that finds employers picking fights with strong and well organized worker’s unions here in Japan.

Now, please do not think that by joining the union you will be able to springboard a workers’ rights revolution. However, if you are serious about improving or at the very least, maintaining your current working conditions, you may want to give the General Union a shout.

For more information, visit their website (http://generalunion.org) or make contact by phone, fax (052) 561-8555, or email (tokai@generalunion.org).

English Tree would like to thank the General Union for allowing us to source information from their website.