General Union (Japan)

The General Union (Japanese: 全労協, Zenrokyo; or more formally 全国労働組合総連合, Zenkoku Rodo Kumiai So Rengo) is a general trade union based in Japan. It is a member union of the National Confederation of Trade Unions (Zenroren).

The General Union primarily represents foreign workers, but membership is open to all workers regardless of nationality. It focuses on organizing workplaces, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and advocating for workers' rights. The union deals with a wide range of labor issues including unfair dismissal, wage theft, discrimination, and harassment.

The union aims to improve working conditions and employment standards for all workers in Japan, particularly vulnerable populations like foreign workers who may face language barriers or cultural differences. It achieves this through direct workplace representation, legal support, public awareness campaigns, and lobbying efforts.

The General Union has branches throughout Japan and is involved in various social justice movements beyond purely workplace issues. They often collaborate with other labor unions and community organizations to address broader issues of inequality and human rights.