Governor Koike Yuriko’s Bold Vision for Gender Equality

Koike Yuriko, Governor of Tokyo, discusses gender equality and its importance in Japan, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives to foster innovation and societal well-being. She acknowledges the challenges faced by women in Japan and her efforts to promote gender equality throughout her political career.

Yuriko highlights her initiatives as governor to empower women in Tokyo, such as implementing organizational reforms, setting quotas to increase female representation, and promoting female entrepreneurship through programs like APT Women. She also addresses the importance of men taking an active role in childcare and tackling unconscious gender bias to enhance women’s status.

Throughout her political journey, Yuriko has broken barriers as the first woman in various leadership roles, including Minister of Defense and chair of the Liberal Democratic Party’s General Council. She remains committed to supporting women’s empowerment and promoting policies that benefit families and individuals alike.

Her ultimate goal is to create a society in Japan where gender differences become less relevant, allowing all individuals to thrive and contribute actively to their communities.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Council on Foreign Relations