The Tokyo High Court has handed down a decisive ruling in favor of Tozen Union member Steven Ritchie, confirming that the Tokyo International French School (Lycée Français International de Tokyo) violated Japanese labor law by imposing unpaid work beyond his contractual hours.
On November 27, 2025, the High Court fully upheld the earlier District Court judgment, ruling that:
- Steven’s legally prescribed working hours were 8:15–15:15, Monday to Friday, totaling 27 hours per week,
- Any duties performed outside these hours—including meetings, APC activities, and other administrative requirements—constituted working time that must be paid under Japanese law,
- The school’s allegations that Steven had refused professional duties were unsupported by any evidence,
- The school had wrongfully withheld paid leave and improperly deducted wages.
The Court ordered the institution to pay all outstanding wages and statutory penalties.
This ruling establishes a clear and far-reaching precedent:
Foreign schools operating in Japan must comply with Japanese labor standards. Internal regulations, foreign ministry assumptions, and imported employment customs do not override Japanese law.
Steven expressed gratitude for the union’s continued support throughout the multi-year legal battle and pledged a donation to Tozen to help further defend the rights of educators and foreign workers across Japan.
“This decision affirms that no school—international or otherwise—is above Japanese law. I’m deeply thankful to Tozen Union for standing with me every step of the way,” said Steven following the judgment.
Tozen Union congratulates Steven on this significant achievement.
This victory not only rectifies years of unpaid labor but also strengthens protections for all educators working in Japan’s international and foreign-affiliated schools.
When workers stand together, we win.
