JCCU examined the retrospective and the future direction of the work on gender equality in the fiscal 2015 with particular reference to two sectors, “staff organization” and “co-op members’ activities”.

Regarding staff organization a committee was set up to carry out 5 discussions and the results compiled into a report.

Circumstances surrounding the employment in Japan has changed considerably and it is critical that co-ops provide a platform for employees of co-op to learn and share views concerning the changes. Work-life-balance is the foundation of efforts of gender equality and its promotion is essential. The report examines efforts to resolve the problem with long working hours, workplace communication promotion, staff livelihood and efforts to participate in community activities and the promotion of female employees.

In the case of members’ activities JCCU relied on the summary of the member co-ops Board of Directors meetings in each region. The report emphasizes the need for the organization to create a platform or provide chances for members to participate, such as education program, study tour, saloon activity etc. Emphasis is also given to the initiatives towards young generation and child-rearing generation.

Also efforts toward the promotion of senior citizen participation in the community is summarized.