youth

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

DYLJ holds its 32nd National Congress

The Democratic Youth League of Japan (DYLJ) held its 32nd National Congress on November 25-27 and confirmed that it will continue to make efforts to organize young people, the bearers of a new society.

Attended by delegates from throughout Japan, the National Congress adopted a unanimous action program and elected a new DYLJ Central Committee. Himei Jiro was reelected DYLJ chair.

In the 3-day discussion, 52 delegates spoke about activities they have organized to meet young people's various demands, including a rally calling for young people's job security that has been held three times in the last two years attended by about 1,000 people; many struggles that have brought victories in withdrawing young workers' dismissals and getting settlement packages; a campaign developing to oppose a rise in tuition at many universities and colleges; and activities of "Article 9 Forum" to defend the Constitution at more than 40 universities.

On the 2nd day, Japanese Communist Party Executive Committee Chair Shii Kazuo spoke on the characteristics of the present situation in Japan as well as visions for the future.

Shii pointed out that "neo-liberalism" policies pursued by the Koizumi government is forcing young people to suffer hardships and telling them that they have no choice but to endure the pain. The ideology of "neo-liberalism" expects people to act under their own responsibility and wants to make them believe that failings are their own fault in order to break up people's solidarity, Shii revealed.

On that basis, Shii praised the DYLJ slogan, "The one at fault is not you, but the present government leadership," and called for firm solidarity with the JCP to rebuff such negative politics.

DYLJ Chair Himei gave the concluding remarks stating that the 3-day discussion was full of conviction, and called for a stronger organization by recruiting more young people who will be the key players in future politics and society.
- Akahata, November 26-28, 2005