Protecting Core Conditions
A common question from members who have converted to an unlimited-term contract is whether their employer can now change their…
From Annual Uncertainty to Greater Stability
For many workers in Japan, every contract renewal brings the same question: Will I be offered another contract when this…
Stop Wage Theft: Why We’re Doing This Together
You stayed late again. You worked through your break again. You answered emails at home, marked papers after hours, showed…
General Union Member Sues Interac! You May Be Able to Recover Yours, Too
On June 25, the first hearing was held at the Tokyo District Court in a lawsuit against Interac over its…
When Things Go Wrong – Part 2
Small Overpayments = Big Headache A group of teachers were union members working at a university. Over a series of…
When Things Go Wrong – Part 1
Over the past few weeks, we have posted several articles about the importance of reading your payslip to make sure…
Extra Payments – Part 3
Records for Reimbursements Ethan* worked at an English conversation school. From time to time, he would buy materials for the…
Extra Payments – Part 2
Is the fare fair? Lisa* regularly took the train to work and was given a transportation allowance in advance to…
Extra Payments – Part 1
Everyone likes it when there is extra money showing up on their payslip. But what happens when it doesn’t appear…
Deductions – Part 3
They can do that?! Ryan* resigned from his job in March. He requested to see the payslip in advance of…
Deductions – Part 2
Why wasn’t I deducted? Ashley* has worked in Japan for 5 years and changed jobs last May. She started receiving…
Deductions – Part 1
In Japan, your employer is legally required to deduct certain items from your salary such as income tax, company insurance…
May Day 2026: Why Your Participation Matters
May first is not just a date on the calendar. It’s May Day, a global day of action rooted in…
Stand Together April 26: Solidarity Demo Against Division
On April 26, the Kinki Demonstration Committee is organizing a March for Rights and Peace in Osaka. The General Union’s…
Video: Power Harassment and Your Workplace Rights
Power harassment, often called “pawahara,” refers to behavior where someone in the workplace uses their power in ways that are…