#Japan #Tokyo #Women Empowerment #National Archives #Equal Employment Opportunity

A Special Exhibition of the Equal Employment Opportunity Law

The National Archives of Japan, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is set to host a limited-time special exhibition celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Equal Employment Opportunity Law (EEOL) this December. From December 13 to December 26, 2025, visitors will have the unique opportunity to view the original document of this landmark legislation.

The EEOL was established to prohibit gender discrimination in the workplace, ensuring that both men and women receive equal treatment. Its inception was largely influenced by significant international movements, including the International Women's Year and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which Japan adopted in 1985. Initially, the law served as a complete revision of the Labor Welfare Law for Women, reflecting Japan’s commitment to change in accordance with global standards.

Originally, the EEOL focused solely on preventing discrimination related to retirement age and dismissal, but it required employers to make efforts to address issues surrounding recruitment, hiring, promotion, and advancement. Some critics argued that these initial provisions were inadequate. However, significant revisions in 1997 transformed many of these efforts into mandatory prohibitions. The 2006 amendments expanded protections further by addressing discrimination against men, prohibiting indirect discrimination, and outlawing unfavorable treatment related to pregnancy and childbirth.

Digital Exhibition Information

In recognition of those living far away, the National Archives has also launched a digital exhibition featuring around 30 different online content pieces. Highlights of this digital showcase include narratives of events from 1945, a pivotal year of change, and explorations of Japan’s rapid economic growth during the post-war recovery period. Visitors can explore special exhibitions on topics ranging from Tokugawa Ieyasu’s legacy in the shogunal collections to the botanical interests of Edo-period citizens.

Additionally, in March 2026, a digital exhibition entitled 'Women Who Shine Across Eras' is also scheduled, which will include the original document of the EEOL. This showcase will spotlight influential women, such as Tsuda Umeko, who accompanied the Iwakura Mission to study abroad, Kuroda Chika, a trailblazer for female researchers, and Masako Nakayama, the first female Cabinet Minister in Japan.

The digital exhibition can be accessed via the National Archives' official website, under the 'Past Exhibitions' section. It’s a chance to delve into Japan's history and the inspiring contributions of women.

Special Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Period: December 13 (Saturday) to December 26 (Friday), 2025
• - Closed Dates: December 14 (Sunday) and December 21 (Sunday)
• - Location: National Archives of Japan, Main Building, 1st Floor Permanent Exhibition Room
• - Address: 3-2 Kitanomaru Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0091
• - Access: 5-minute walk from Takebashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, Exit 1b
• - Opening Hours: 9:15 AM - 5:00 PM

For more information, visit the National Archives website: National Archives Official Site