Japanese workers step up fight against overwork

As reported a number of times previously, Japanese workers continue to face increasing pressures at work such as long work hours and precarious work contracts. In a recent action, thousands of people rallied in Tokyo to protest against the government’s proposed new labour laws. Labour activists say these new laws will lead to an increase in ‘Karoshi’ – death from overwork – through increased casualisation rates and increased hours of work, whether paid or unpaid. The effects of such legislation can already be seen at places such as the Okubo Glass Company that wants to reintroduce 12 hours shifts via a subcontracting arrangement.

As reported a number of times previously, Japanese workers continue to face increasing pressures at work such as long work hours and precarious work contracts. In a recent action, thousands of people rallied in Tokyo to protest against the government’s proposed new labour laws. Labour activists say these new laws will lead to an increase in ‘Karoshi’ – death from overwork – through increased casualisation rates and increased hours of work, whether paid or unpaid. The effects of such legislation can already be seen at places such as the Okubo Glass Company that wants to reintroduce 12 hours shifts via a subcontracting arrangement.