Can Freelancers Join a Union? Sometimes Yes, Sometimes No.
First, let’s clear one thing up. Many so-called freelancers in Japan are actually misclassified by employers, often on purpose. They…
Language Schools
Leap into Autumn with Organising Training
The leaves are turning, and so can your workplace. October dates for the Individual Organising Training are now open! Learn…
When Crime Pays: Japan’s Social Insurance Enforcement Charade
Imagine if the only penalty for dangerous speeding was being told to slow down. No fines, no licence points, no…
Altia Central: Pay a Living Wage! Kyoto Board of Education: Directly Hire ALTs!
On September 24th, we held collective bargaining with dispatch company Altia Central. Our demands were stark and simple: Nobody can…
Labor Bulletin #227
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed, or are being discussed, in parliament, court decisions, and…
Labor Bulletin #226
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed, or are being discussed, in parliament, court decisions, and…
Variable Working Hours: What You Need to Watch For
In recent months, we’ve had a wave of consultations about working hours. Members are being told they must work Saturdays,…
Online Public Workshop: Understanding and Combating Power Harassment
Power harassment, sometimes called abuse of authority or workplace bullying, can be confusing and difficult to deal with. Many workers…
Labor Bulletin #225
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed, or are being discussed, in parliament, court decisions, and…
Individual Organising Training Version 4 Up and Running
Our Individual Organising Training is back, stronger than ever. Version 4 brings together everything we’ve learned from past sessions, updated…
Canada’s World Expo Pavilion: A Tale of Workplace Chaos
This article has been removed because General Union is currently in negotiations.
Labor Bulletin #224
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed, or are being discussed, in parliament, court decisions, and…
The “Best” Worst First Choice: Why Going to a Government Labour Office or Consultation Centre First Often Backfires
Summary: Going to government labour offices or consultation centres first seems logical when facing workplace problems, but it often backfires.…
Don’t be Number 970 Thousand and One: How Employers Cheat Workers out of Pensions
Summary: Nearly one million workers in Japan are being illegally excluded from Kosei Nenkin, losing pension coverage they’re entitled to. Employers…
Fighting Back Against Class Cuts: Why Universities Can’t Keep Dumping Their Problems on Workers
Universities are cutting part-time teachers’ classes and expecting workers to absorb 100% of the financial impact. The General Union says:…