Japan gender equality

Japan has made childcare leave a top priority but the latest amendments show inconsistencies between the law and reality.

A young Afghan woman who emigrated to Japan became ensnared in a nightmare, caught between an abusive partner and a rigid bureaucracy.

Efforts to annul outdated marriage provisions through the courts have failed. Can the legislature overcome the deeply entrenched political gap hindering reform?

Japan remains hesitant to formally tackle its male-dominated political system. But one woman might beat the odds and force real change.

Following the blowback from the previous president’s sexist comments, the male-dominated Organizing Committee tapped a woman to lead.

For many, Mori’s derogatory remarks toward women were the final straw in growing distrust behind the delayed Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

Sexist comments from the organizing committee head underline Japan’s deep-seated gender issues.

As the pandemic exacerbates poverty rates among single mothers, the shortcomings of womenomics reforms are on full display.

Japan’s law requiring married couples to use the same surname has come under the spotlight as a significant obstacle to women’s empowerment.

A more uncertain and competitive political climate could lead to urgently needed quota legislation for female politicians.

Public support is growing to make parental leave compulsory for fathers. But will that encourage a more equal sharing of the childcare burden?