Exploring Gender Equality in Agriculture: A Symposium for 2026

On October 15, 2026, a groundbreaking symposium titled "Local Gender Equality 2026: Considering the International Year of Women in Agriculture" will take place, organized by Kyodo News and the Japan Agricultural Newspaper. This event aims to address persistent gender gaps within the agricultural sector, a topic that remains crucial in shaping the future of agricultural practices.

The Context

2026 has been designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Women in Agriculture. The symposium serves as a platform to critically examine the social norms and customs that underpin gender disparities in farming communities. Why does this equality gap persist? What cultural barriers must we confront to pave the way for future generations?

Event Details

The symposium will be held at the Tokyo Women's Plaza Hall, located just a short walk from Omotesando Station, and will feature a hybrid format—allowing attendance both physically and virtually. With no limit on online participation and seating for 200 attendees in the venue, the event is free and accessible to all

- Date: October 15, 2026
- Time: 14:00 - 17:00 (Doors open at 13:30)
- Location: Tokyo Women’s Plaza Hall
- Participation: Free with registration required

Designed for All

Participants can expect an engaging three-hour discussion with leading figures in agriculture and gender studies. The notable speakers include:

- Akira Anno, Professor at Komazawa University
- Shigematsu Obayashi, Director of Green Omi Agricultural Cooperative
- Tomoko Shinkai, Farmer and founder of the Living FIT Project
- Eriko Yamawaki, Head of the Media Center at Kyodo News

Moderation will be handled by Daizo Ogata, an editorial board member of the Japan Agricultural Newspaper. This respected lineup represents a mix of academia, agricultural practice, and media, ensuring a robust conversation.

Supporting Organizations

The event is jointly sponsored by several prominent organizations including the Cabinet Office's Gender Equality Bureau, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the National Governors' Association. Additionally, sponsors like Airbnb Japan, Kyoei Fire & Marine Insurance, and Tokyo Agricultural University demonstrate broad support for this vital venture.

Special Feature

Attendees will also receive a publication summarizing the symposium's discussions, providing valuable insights and encouraging ongoing dialogue beyond the event itself.

How to Participate

Registration can be done via a QR code provided for easy access. Given the free admission and the unlimited capacity for online attendees, we encourage everyone interested in the challenges of gender equity in the agricultural sector to join in this essential conversation.

For inquiries, please contact the Symposium Office at Kyodo News, or reach us via email at [email protected], directed by Inoue and Nishiyama.

By fostering dialogue around gender equality and the agricultural landscape, this symposium is a significant step towards understanding and overcoming the barriers women face in this sector. Whether you're an experienced farmer, a student, a policy maker, or simply interested in gender issues in agriculture, your voice is important.

Let’s come together to cultivate a more equitable future in agriculture, one discussion at a time!