A Turning Point in Feminism

Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

Photo from picryl / CC BY-SA 4.0

On Saturday, Oct. 4, Japan made history by electing Sanao Takaichi as its first female prime minister. Representing the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Japan’s long-ruling conservative party, Takaichi’s win marks a milestone in Japan’s male-dominated political scene. 

Takaichi has significant political experience, having served in multiple cabinet positions, which includes: Minister of Internal Affairs, Minister for Gender Equality and other roles related to economic security. Her extensive experience has shaped her into an ideal candidate, while also emphasizing the importance of women in political roles. Takaichi’s election also further encourages the increasing role of women in Japanese politics. 

She won the LDP by 29 votes and defeated five candidates in the race. These candidates included the Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and other important political figures. Since the LDP makes up the majority of parliament, Takaichi is set to formally become prime minister around mid-October, once the Japanese parliament confirms her appointment.