67% of students positive about joining labor union

Japan Press Weekly

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

67% of students positive about joining labor union

A survey released on October 1 by the Japan Research of Labor Movement (Rodo-soken) showed that about 70% of university students say that they want to join or will join a union if need arises, indicating that an increasing number of young people support the role of labor unions.

Rodo-soken's young researchers working at universities in the metropolitan areas and in Shizuoka Prefecture conducted the survey in their classes between January and February. The questionnaire was responded to by 610 students.

Asked about whether a labor union is needed or not, 57.2 percent made a positive response. Regarding the question, "After starting to work, do you want to join a labor union?", 67.3 percent of respondent said, "Yes, very much", or "Yes, if need arises."

The same survey conducted in April to 593 new students showed that 68.5 percent answered that a labor union is necessary and 44 percent wanted to join a union when they start to work.

As to the reason why they are positive about joining a labor union, many gave workers' rights, unity, and solidarity by saying, "I want to protect my workers' rights", or "I can work together with fellow workers to improve working conditions."

From 70 to 80 percent of students stated that they do not have a negative image of labor unions such as being scary or troublesome.

Commenting on the survey result, The National Confederation of Trade Union (Zenroren) Labor Research Bureau Director Ito Keiichi said, "At one time, it was said that young people were moving away from labor unions. But I found that many students now realize the need for unions. We will make further efforts to enable young people to learn more about unions."

- Akahata, October 2, 2009