Respect Core Labor Standards Present Request to JAWOC at 2002 FIFA World Cup (8 February 2002)

Photo: Chairman Shoh Nasu (left center) is requested to base the World Cup on core labor standards. (2/5, JAWOC HQ.) On February 5, RENGO, which has been cooperating with the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan management regarding the hiring of volunteers through local RENGO, presented Japan Organizing Committee (JAWOC) Chairman Shoh Nasu with three points to be recognized. These are: [1] the environment, [2] human rights, and [3] core labor standards (compliance with the eight conventions in four fields that ILO member nations should respect and promote). RENGO called on the JAWOC to request that the Korean Organizing Committee also make similar considerations. On a visit to the JAWOC headquarters in Yurakucho Tokyo, President Sasamori explained and submitted a written request. In it, he stated his concern about the persistence of child labor in the manufacturing of balls, uniforms, and shoes for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He appealed to them saying, "as trade unions, we consider it important to observe 'core labor standards' especially the abolition of forced labor and child labor." In response, Chairman Nasu presented an statement that JAWOC fundamentally accepts RENGO's demands and "JAWOC will similarly call on the Korean Organizing Committee (KOWOC)." RENGO will fortify its stance toward the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) jointly with the ICFTU (International Confederation of Free Trade Unions) and call for similar cooperation from local governments along with local RENGO in local venues for the World Cup games.

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