Mitsuko Tottori, the new CEO of Japan Airlines and a leader in the movement for gender equality, discusses Japan's Womenomics initiative. She highlights the slow progress in increasing women in leadership since its 2013 launch and reflects on her own journey to the top. Tottori shares insights from young women in Japan expressing hope for change in workplace dynamics. The conversation emphasizes evolving attitudes toward gender roles and the importance of supporting women in balancing careers and family, signaling a shift towards greater equality.
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Quick takeaways
Japan's 'Womenomics' initiative aimed to increase female leadership to 30% by 2020, but significant challenges persist toward achieving this goal.
Mitsuko Tottori's appointment as Japan Airlines' CEO symbolizes progress and highlights the importance of role models in inspiring young women.
Deep dives
Japan's Womenomics Initiative and Its Challenges
The Womenomics initiative was introduced by Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in an effort to increase female representation in leadership roles to 30% by 2020. However, this target has not been met, with updated goals pushing the deadline to the 2030s. The initial enthusiasm for female leadership was later tempered, with only 7% of senior government positions and 15% in the private sector held by women. Obstacles such as societal norms, workplace culture, and the slow pace of change continue to hinder progress in achieving gender parity in Japan.
Individual Successes and Cultural Shifts
Recent appointments, such as Mitsuko Tottori, the first female CEO of Japan Airlines, signify progress in breaking through the 'glass ceiling' in Japan's corporate sector. Tottori's rise has garnered significant media attention, highlighting both the challenges and the potential for change within Japanese society. Experts believe that visible role models like Tottori are crucial for encouraging young women to aspire to leadership positions. As the business landscape evolves, there are signs of a cultural shift, with increasing numbers of young women aiming for management roles despite lingering traditional expectations.
Generational Perspectives on Gender Equality
Young women in Japan express a mix of optimism and frustration regarding gender equality, acknowledging progress in workplace support systems while recognizing lasting societal biases. Interviews with students reveal a belief that despite more women entering the workforce, household responsibilities remain disproportionately on their shoulders. There is a pervasive cultural expectation for women to seek financial stability through marriage rather than pursuing independent careers, which continues to shape their aspirations. Meanwhile, changes in family dynamics are noted, as younger generation fathers become more involved in child-rearing, suggesting a gradual shift in traditional gender roles.
We look at Japan's policy to boost its economy by getting more women into the workforce.
It was announced back in 2013 by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and dubbed 'Womenomics'.
Mr Abe gave a deadline of 2020 to significantly increase the number of women in leadership roles. But that date quietly came and went without the target even getting close.
However could things could be starting to change? Japan Airlines new CEO Mitsuko Tottori is a woman, and that has restarted conversations. We hear from her, and from young women in the country about their hopes for the future.
Produced and presented by Mariko Oi
(Image: Mitsuko Tottori, chief executive officer of Japan Airlines Co. Credit: Getty Images)
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