The Briefing Can Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, unite the nation and revive its economy?
Oct 21, 2025
Fernando Augusto Pacheco, a senior correspondent with deep insights on Latin America, and Tyler Brûlé, Monocle's editorial director, dive into the challenges facing Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. They explore her historic election, the fragile coalition she leads, and the urgent need to address economic issues like inflation and wages. Shifting to Latin America, Pacheco sheds light on Bolivia’s political shift and Argentina's electoral landscape, while Brûlé shares updates on Paris's vibrant art scene amidst political turmoil.
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Historic Female Leadership Shift
- Sanae Takaichi's election is a symbolic breakthrough as Japan's first female prime minister despite ideological caveats.
- Her victory reshapes Japan's political image and signals changing expectations about leadership.
Fragile Coalition, Hard Mandate
- Takaichi leads a fresh, fragile coalition and currently heads a minority government.
- That configuration increases the difficulty of passing economic reforms and managing party fractures.
Make The Economy The Priority
- Prioritise the economy to address rising prices and stagnant wages, as public concern centres on livelihoods.
- Takaichi must visibly improve wages and cost-of-living to sustain public support.