Following weeks of expectation, Japan has now appointed its inaugural female prime minister. Sanae Takaichi is at the helm of the Liberal Democratic Party, heading a new coalition, and governing the nation. This represents a significant shift in a nation that has historically faced challenges in promoting female leadership within both the political and corporate spheres; by the end of 2024, Japan had just 13 female CEOs, with less than 1% of companies listed on the prime section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Takaichi holds the distinction of being Japan's 104th prime minister throughout its history, and the fourth to serve in the last five years.
Nara, in western Japan, is where Takaichi spent her childhood. She entered parliament for the first time in 1993. The 64-year-old has previously held positions as minister of economic security and internal affairs.
Her rise has sparked discussion regarding what the impact will be for women in Japan. Takaichi holds ultraconservative views, and the coalition she recently formed is anticipated to shift her faction further rightward.
The Economist describes her as “hawkish on security policy, dovish on fiscal policy,” and a “traditionalist culture warrior” on social issues frequently linked to advancements in gender equality. The incoming prime minister backs the imperial family's male-only succession rule. She is against same-sex marriage and permitting married couples to use different surnames. Margaret Thatcher is among her political inspirations. According to Reuters, Takaichi respects Thatcher’s blend of “strong character and convictions” with “womanly warmth.” Another significant influence on her is the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whom she considered a mentor.
Takaichi could also further women's advancement in government. She already named Satsuki Katayama, who was Japan’s first female finance minister. Kimi Onoda was appointed economic security minister. Currently, her cabinet of 19 people includes two women; Japan's previous high was five.
Takaichi stands out as more forward-thinking regarding women's health; she's pledged to broaden service availability and has shared her personal journey with menopause.
Takaichi is part of global politics’ rightward shift. One of her first international tests will be a meeting with President Trump next week. Japan is hardly the only country that will reckon with what the ascension of female leaders means when those politicians don’t support policies that women’s rights activists want to see. Women in Japan seem divided on that question. But one 19-year-old told the New York Times: “I want Takaichi to make it easier for women to become politicians and representatives.”
Emma Hinchliffe
emma.Hinchliffe@coins2day.com
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