Japan Workers’ Co-operative Union (JWCU)

Summary

The Japan Workers’ Co-operative Union (JWCU), originated from the movement to create jobs by the unemployed middle-aged and elderly persons by themselves after World War II, was founded in 1979. JWCU represents and unites worker co-operatives throughout Japan. Each worker cooperative is owned and democratically controlled by the worker-members and dedicated to creating jobs to promote the well-being of communities through associated work of the members and community residents.

JWCU consists of 27 member organizations, including primarily worker co-operatives, older persons’ co-operatives and affiliated organizations, embracing over 13,000 worker-members in total. Our businesses represent diverse areas and sectors in economy such as social services, building maintenance, environment and food/agriculture. Our turnover in fiscal year 2017 amounts to over 300 Million USD.

In addition to contributing to the community through the businesses, JWCU seeks to strengthen its bonds to the community through activities for social solidarity. These include organizing seminars and symposia on a broad range of social issues, providing disaster aid and protesting nuclear energy.