Sanae Takaichi's Historic Step: Japan's First Female Prime Minister Faces Gender Equality Criticism

Sanae Takaichi became Japan's first female prime minister, but her predominantly male cabinet has sparked controversy. Despite promises of gender representation similar to Nordic countries, only two women were appointed to her cabinet. Critics argue her socially conservative policies hinder women's empowerment in a country that lags in gender equality rankings.

Sanae Takaichi made history as Japan's first female prime minister this week, but her appointment has been met with mixed reactions due to her predominantly male cabinet and conservative stance on gender equality. Takaichi appointed only two female ministers in a 19-member cabinet, despite her previous promises to advocate for gender equality in leadership roles akin to those in Nordic countries.

Tohko Tanaka, a professor of media and gender studies at the University of Tokyo, considers the move disappointing, as it falls short of empowering women in a country with significant gender disparities. When addressing the gender imbalances in her cabinet, Takaichi defended her choices, citing limited options due to the low proportion of women in her Liberal Democratic Party.

Despite efforts to position herself as a progressive leader, Takaichi's adherence to socially conservative views, including policies on marital surnames and male-only imperial succession, continues to draw criticism. While Japan lags in gender equality compared to Nordic countries, Takaichi's premiership remains a symbolic milestone, offering potential for future change.

(With inputs from agencies.)