As we step into the new year, we would like to reconnect with our shared goals and extend our warm greetings to all members and supporters, and their families, friends and coworkers.

The General Union, founded in 1991, is about to celebrate its 33rd anniversary in 2024. Over these 33 years, our unwavering fight has persisted. From our beginnings as a small group in Osaka, we’ve expanded nationwide, with members across Japan from Hokkaido to Okinawa. Our operations have grown significantly, with headquarters in Osaka, an office in Fukuoka, a team of around ten committed staff members, and a growing number of seasoned workplace activists. It’s essential to recognize this growth and understand the factors driving it. 

Looking ahead, we are setting our sights on a significant milestone: establishing a General Union with 1,000 members by 2026.  

This envisioned “1,000-member General Union” represents our dedication to delving deeper into and carrying forward the legacy of labor union movements in Japan and globally. Building stronger connections with workers, actively listening to workers’ voices, and proactively advocating for the needs of workers, are all crucial elements in achieving this goal. 

We strongly believe that if all union members champion the needs of our fellow workers and if our workplace activists effectively support these efforts, the realization of the “1,000-member General Union” is not just a vision but an achievable reality. 

We wish all of you a joyous and prosperous 2024.

In solidarity,

Toshiaki Asari, Chair

Dennis Tesolat, General Secretary