The labor movement in Japan, particularly the unions under the Rengo (Japanese Trade Union Confederation) umbrella, celebrated wage hikes this spring that were unprecedented in decades. However, the overall state of the labor movement is facing difficulties due to a sharp decline in union membership, with many younger workers not even realizing whether they belong to a union at their workplace. This decline in membership has prompted unions to explore different strategies to recruit and retain members.
Rengo, a major umbrella organization with a membership of over 6 million, organized a rally in Tokyo's Yoyogi Park on April 27, where significant figures like Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and leaders of opposition parties addressed the attendees. The rally aimed to highlight the recent wage hikes achieved through collective bargaining efforts. Despite the positive developments in wage negotiations, the overall trend of decreasing union membership has raised concerns about the future bargaining power of unions in relation to management.
One approach taken by unions to boost membership and solidarity is to engage in activities that go beyond traditional roles. For instance, the union at NGK Insulators Ltd. responded to members' requests for increased networking opportunities by organizing seminars with unions from various industries. These gatherings provide a platform for discussions on social issues and help build connections between different unions. Similarly, startup company Stmn Inc. introduced an app to keep members informed in real-time, while the union at Aeon Financial Service Co. leverages the app to share updates on negotiations and recreational activities with its members.
Moreover, unions are also adapting to cater to the needs of freelance workers, who represent a growing segment of the workforce. The establishment of a union for Uber Eats delivery workers, with an online presence for consultations and monthly meetings via Zoom, reflects an effort to support freelance workers facing uncertainties in their employment. Rengo's initiative to create a website offering support for freelance workers underscores the unions' commitment to inclusivity and adaptability in the changing labor landscape. Through these efforts, unions aim to shed the perception of formality and become more accessible for individuals seeking assistance and guidance in their employment rights and concerns.