Declaration of the 14th RENGO Biennial Convention
We shall never forgive the tyranny by the Government of Japan and the ruling parties in the189th ordinary session of the Diet.
The first instance of their reckless deeds is the deterioration of the Act for Securing theProper Operation of Worker Dispatching Undertakings and Improved Working Conditions for
Dispatched Workers (“the Worker Dispatch Act”). The revision of the Worker Dispatch Act inthis Diet session greatly deviates from the world’s norm of “principle of equal treatment” and“dispatching is to be limited to temporary work.” Instead, the revision promotes lifetime
dispatches at low wages.
Another instance is the strong-armed adoption of national security laws through numericalforce in the Diet. Many citizens have voiced opposition and doubts, claiming “lack ofexplanations” and “insufficient discussions.” The legal community has also madeobservations that such laws violate the Constitution of Japan. Despite these concerns, theGovernment has neglected to seek the understanding of the people and form consensus,
and rammed the adoption of the laws through the Diet. This is defiance against democracy.
It is something that absolutely cannot be permitted.
In addition, while the Government has trumpeted the effects of so-called “Abenomics,” thepoverty rate in Japan has increased, and inequality is worsening. The number of the working
poor with annual income of 2 million yen or less now exceeds 11 million. There is also noend in sight to so-called “black companies,” sweatshops that cast workers aside. An
economic virtuous cycle, to be virtuous, precisely requires “raising and supporting a basic
economic level” and “reducing inequalities.” However, in order to “make Japan the easiest
country for companies to work in,” the Government is seeking to destroy worker protection
rules. We must not accept a growth strategy that sacrifices workers.
RENGO is channeling the anger of each worker into a massive force that transforms society.
We are working to extend collective labor-management relations to every corner of society
and expand the circle of working people to support one another and help one another. At
the same time, we are continuing to devote our efforts to rebuilding and revitalizing Japan
without letting the memories of the Great East Japan Earthquake fade.
What we seek is a society in which all people can find a place to belong and thrive, andlead vigorous, irreplaceable lives. In short, it is a society in which the most important values
are placed on working, and a society in which everyone can participate through fair working
conditions and diverse working styles. It is a “secure society based on work,” in which safety
nets are embedded.
Let’s join together to confront injustice in society and return hope and security to all
workers and people.
The 24th Election of the House of Councilors next year will be a critical battle. To stop theenormous ruling parties from running amok and to reflect the voices of workers in thegovernment, RENGO is harnessing the total strength of its 6.82 million members to elect not
only the 12 candidates that represent RENGO but all recommended candidates.
We are launching a new labor movement based on our Action Policies adopted at this
Biennial Convention.
“No” to inequalities! Let us create a secure society by bringing all working people into theRENGO Circle!
October 7, 2015
14 RENGO Biennial Conventionth