Foreign workers in Japan face a concerning dual challenge as recent government data reveals both record-breaking workplace injuries and historically low union membership rates, raising important questions about labor protections and worker advocacy. According to data reported by Livedoor News on December 27, 2024, Kanagawa Prefecture experienced its highest number of workplace injury casualties in 30 years during 2024. This alarming milestone comes as Japan's labor union membership rate dropped to a record low of 16.0% as of June 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline, according to a Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare survey reported by NHK. The intersection of these trends is particularly significant for foreign workers, who often face language barriers, unfamiliarity with Japanese labor laws, and limited access to workplace advocacy networks. With union membership declining, workers have fewer institutional resources to address safety concerns, negotiate better working conditions, or seek support when workplace issues arise. The severity of Japan's workplace safety situation was tragically illustrated on December 26, 2024, when 15 people were injured in a stabbing incident at the Yokohama Rubber Mishima Factory in Shizuoka Prefecture. According to NHK, the attack occurred during a shift change between day and night workers, when many employees were present. Investigators believe the suspect, a former employee of the factory, drove a vehicle onto the factory premises to carry out the attack. While this incident represents criminal violence rather than a typical workplace accident, it highlights broader concerns about workplace security and the vulnerability of workers during routine operations. The fact that it occurred during a shift change—a time when security protocols may be more relaxed and workers are moving between areas—underscores the need for comprehensive workplace safety measures. For foreign residents working in Japan, understanding your labor rights becomes even more critical in this environment. Japanese labor law provides various protections, including compensation for workplace injuries through the Workers' Accident Compensation Insurance system (rōsai hoken). All employees in Japan, regardless of nationality or visa status, are entitled to this coverage, which their employers are legally required to provide. The declining union membership rate presents particular challenges for foreign workers seeking collective bargaining power or workplace advocacy. Unions in Japan have traditionally played a crucial role in negotiating safer working conditions, fair wages, and employee protections. With only 16% of workers now unionized, individual employees may find themselves with less institutional support when addressing workplace concerns. Experts suggest several factors contribute to declining union membership, including the growth of non-regular employment, the rise of service-sector jobs, and generational shifts in attitudes toward collective organization. For foreign workers, additional barriers include language difficulties, temporary work arrangements, and limited awareness of union options. Despite these challenges, foreign workers have several resources available. Local labor standards inspection offices (rōdō kijun kantokusho) can investigate workplace safety violations and provide guidance in multiple languages. Some municipalities offer foreign resident consultation services that can help navigate labor issues. Additionally, several unions specifically welcome foreign members and provide multilingual support. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has indicated ongoing efforts to improve workplace safety standards, though the rising casualty numbers in prefectures like Kanagawa suggest implementation challenges remain. Foreign workers should familiarize themselves with their workplace's safety protocols, ensure they receive proper training in a language they understand, and know how to report safety concerns without fear of retaliation. As Japan continues to welcome foreign workers to address labor shortages, ensuring workplace safety and maintaining robust labor protections becomes increasingly important. Understanding your rights, knowing available resources, and staying informed about workplace safety requirements are essential steps for protecting yourself in Japan's evolving labor landscape.