Japan is a highly developed, free-market economy ranking third in the world by GDP. Every day, men and women work side-by-side, together for the economic progress of the country. Leading the charge are the millennials and Gen Z - people in the age group of 20 to 30 years. While the ratio of male and female workers in this age group is almost equal, it is not the same in the other age groups.
Status of working women in Japan is uninspiring
To close the gender gap and prevent discrimination between men and women at the workplace, Japan enacted the Equal Opportunity Law during the 1980s. However, even after four decades of the enactment of the law, the status of women in the Japanese workforce continues to be uninspiring.
When it comes to women in management positions, Japan is still in the lower realm of rankings - placed 11th out of 12 countries around the globe. This poor showing does not reflect well on an economic powerhouse such as Japan.
Report by Mynavi: Current Status of Women's Activities (2021) - Increasing Career Options for Women
I often wonder what measures we can take to improve the status of Japanese women in their work environment and bridge the overall gap as is the case for millennials and Gen Z. Even today, women in older age groups continue to fight hard for equal status and rights, although a section of men supports them.
Break the Bias
The emergence of the internet is a boon, as social media platforms have helped raise information about the plight of the working women in Japan. These platforms continue to play a key role in spreading awareness and changing the mindset of the younger generations. Activities such as International Women’s Day are contributing to this welcome change. I feel the influence of this ‘change in conscience’ is spreading globally, beyond the borders of our country.
It makes me happy that the younger generations around the world are now able to view each other as human beings without any biases based on gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, and so on. And I wish we can quickly achieve a gender-equal world among all age groups. A world that is free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where differences are valued and celebrated.
At Arkose Labs, we are together forging women's equality, because collectively we can #BreakTheBias.
Happy Women’s Day!
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