On Day 3 of the ATU Tokyo, Japan, transportation tour, International President John Costa, the ATU delegation, and our allies at the ITF continued their journey through the city, learning from one of the world’s most advanced transit systems while always keeping transit workers at the center of the conversation.
The day kicked off with a ride on the JR Railway and the Level 4 Yurikamome Automated Light Rail, offering valuable insight into Tokyo’s automated rail operations, a critical opportunity to see how technology can work for workers, not against them.
They then headed to the Ariake Bus Depot, operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation Union, who serve 3 million passengers per day. There, they saw hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses and real-time bus operation monitoring systems in action. The Union and Bureau shared their goals and plans for autonomous transit, and our delegation made clear that workers must have a seat at the table as these technologies evolve. Transit innovation can’t come at the cost of union jobs or safety.
“Around the world, transit systems are evolving, but workers must be at the center of that progress. Innovation must be shaped by the voices of workers, not imposed without them. Whether it's automation, sustainability, or safety, transit workers must have a seat at the table because no technology can replace the skill, dedication, and experience we bring every day.” Costa also told the unionists that we have a saying in the states, “We move this city, and if we don’t get it, shut it down!”
This tour of Tokyo has been about strengthening international solidarity, sharing best practices, and ensuring that, regardless of country, transit workers are respected, protected, and empowered. Under the leadership of International President John Costa, the ATU will continue to stand strong for transit workers worldwide.