Why women are Japan's hidden asset

• Published in: The World Ahead p. 54
• Main Author: Masako, Mori
• Format: Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: London The Economist Intelligence Unit N.A., Incorporated 01.01.2023
• Subjects: Birth rate; Education; Empowerment; Equality; Gender equity; Gender pay gap; Women; Japan

In Japan, there is a belief that women's participation in the workforce contributes to the declining birth rate. However, promoting gender parity and raising the birth rate are not contradictory goals. Japan ranks low in the Global Gender Gap Index, particularly in political and economic participation. On the other hand, Japan excels in health and education. Recognizing the link between gender inequality and population decline is crucial in solving both problems. The same minister should be in charge of women's empowerment and the declining birth rate to enhance policy synergy. Improving women's employment rate and working hours could significantly boost Japan's GDP. While investment in women's education has not led to higher incomes, there are still many Japanese women who are not fully active in the labor market. The Japanese government has made some progress in promoting women's advancement, such as increasing the number of female workers and addressing the employment rate curve.