#Japan #Tokyo #Gender Gap #Women in Action

Expanding Women's Empowerment from Tokyo

In a society facing population decline, harnessing the potential of women, who represent half of the population, is essential for creating a rich and diverse society. When we look globally, Japan ranks 118th out of 148 countries in the Gender Gap Index, reflecting a significant lag in women's active participation. This reality highlights the need for reform and proactive measures to enhance women's roles across all sectors.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is spearheading initiatives aimed at promoting women's empowerment under the program titled "Women in Action" (WA). These efforts serve to not only uplift women in Tokyo but also extend this momentum across Japan. Recently, the Metropolitan Government released a digital book showcasing the various policies and achievements related to women's empowerment in Tokyo, presenting it as a comprehensive resource.

Contents of the Digital Book on Women's Empowerment Policies

The digital book is divided into three main sections:

1. Current Status of Women

In this section, the issues women face are discussed, emphasizing the noticeable gap in economic participation and decision-making roles. It also addresses legislation concerning women's labor and the support systems in place. It’s a retrospective analysis of the progress and challenges faced since the enactment of the Equal Employment Opportunity Law 40 years ago, and a focus on the disparities in financial opportunities and the representation of women in advisory councils.

2. Impact of Women’s Empowerment on Economy

The second section highlights how fostering an environment for women's active involvement can benefit companies and the economy at large. Research shows that companies with a higher proportion of female executives tend to perform better on various stock and performance indicators. Additionally, when women's incomes increase, consumption rates rise, which ultimately influences the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) positively.

3. Tokyo's Policies for Women's Empowerment

This section outlines several supportive initiatives, including:

• - Conferences and Forums: Tokyo Women's Future Forum and a network of female mayors aiming to share vision and guidance.
• - Startup and Entrepreneurial Support: Programs like APT Women support female entrepreneurs and encourage leadership in business.
• - Career Counseling and Resources: Facilities such as Working Women's Square and various support services designed for women.
• - Educational Support for Young Women: Initiatives like Girls Meet STEM in Tokyo provide office tours and discussions for schoolgirls.
• - Awards and Recognition Systems: Initiatives to honor women's contributions and achievements in various domains.
• - Health and Wellness Programs: Efforts to enhance women's health in the workplace through various initiatives and support networks.

Conclusion

The efforts of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government are integral to shifting societal perceptions regarding gender roles and fostering an environment where women can freely choose their paths in life. It is crucial to see these movements not merely as a local initiative but as part of a broader strategy towards empowering women nationwide under the strategic goal for Tokyo in 2050. As these circles of empowerment expand, we step closer to realizing a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can pursue their aspirations fully.

For more information, access the digital book on Tokyo’s women's empowerment initiatives and explore the pathways being paved towards a more inclusive future.