Introduction
For the first time in its history, Japan has a woman leading the government with Sanae Takaichi’s appointment as Prime Minister. However, this milestone is viewed more as a symbolic victory rather than a genuine shift in societal structures that restrict women’s participation in politics.
Challenges Faced by Women in Politics
In interviews with AFP, three local politicians shared the obstacles they encounter in a male-dominated environment with strict gender roles.
- Makoto Sasaki, a 28-year-old councilor in Miyako City, recalls being advised to focus on family instead of politics when she first ran for office. Currently, only three out of 22 council members are women.
- Sasaki warns that without addressing societal structures like the gender gap, domestic responsibilities, and care work, “the number of women in politics will not increase.”
Japan’s gender roles remain deeply entrenched. Women are expected to manage household and family responsibilities, even when employed. They are significantly underrepresented in politics and business.
Takaichi’s Stance on Gender Equality
Despite pledging a “Scandinavian proportion” of women in her cabinet, Takaichi appointed only two. A Thatcher admirer and conservative line follower, she has shown little interest in advancing gender equality policies.
Skepticism and Gender Stereotypes
In Tomakomai, Chihiro Igarashi, a mother of two and one of the city’s two councilwomen, constantly worries about balancing her work and family life.
The idea that mothers should respond in emergencies is deeply ingrained.
Statistics show that Japanese mothers dedicate over seven hours daily to care and domestic tasks, while fathers contribute less than two hours.
In Atsugi, near Tokyo, single mother and local politician Erika Tsumori recounts facing prejudice due to her family situation and appearance. She was told she wasn’t a suitable candidate because of her long earrings.
Hopes for Change in Takaichi’s Hometown
In Nara, Takaichi’s hometown, some anticipated she would bring “new perspectives” for women in politics.
Japan ranks 118 out of 148 in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2025. In the Lower House, only 15% of legislators are women.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Sanae Takaichi? Sanae Takaichi is Japan’s first female Prime Minister, appointed amidst skepticism about her commitment to gender equality.
- What are the challenges faced by women in Japanese politics? Women in Japan face deeply rooted gender roles, societal expectations of managing households, and underrepresentation in politics and business.
- What is Takaichi’s stance on gender equality? Despite pledging a “Scandinavian proportion” of women in her cabinet, Takaichi has appointed only two and shown little interest in advancing gender equality policies.
- How do gender stereotypes affect women in Japan? Japanese mothers dedicate significantly more time to care and domestic tasks than fathers, and women in politics often face prejudice based on their family situation and appearance.
- What are the statistics on women’s representation in Japanese politics? Japan ranks 118 out of 148 in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2025, and only 15% of legislators in the Lower House are women.
