Case Study 2: Women as an Economic Driver
Introduction In 2024 and 2025, a record number of women were elected to Japan’s House of Representatives and the Upper House. 4 Leaders like Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike have become examples of women gaining influence in government. Known for being the first woman elected as Tokyo’s governor, Koike’s career marks a step forward in Japanese women’s leadership. Her advocacy for women-friendly policies and outspoken stance on getting more women involved in politics demonstrate how diverse voices in leadership can contribute to more equitable and inclusive futures. 5 Although the number of women in politics has increased, Japan’s rural areas have not seen a significant increase. Traditional gender roles are more deeply rooted and gender disparity continues. 6 Women on the Margins Poverty rates for women, particularly single mothers, female- headed households with children, and single elderly women, are disproportionately higher than those of men. Despite the fact nearly 90 percent of single women participate in the workforce, 61 percent are still living in poverty. 7 The documentary The Ones Left Behind highlights how one in seven women and children in Japan live in poverty. The film provides an unfiltered look at how systemic barriers can isolate and entrap women who are, in many ways, left behind.
“Perceptions that women are neither decision-makers nor leaders run deep in Japan, and this results in an underutilization of women’s abilities. This is in deed mottainai , or an unfortunate waste.” —Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo 3
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Ten Years in the Making
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