Japan's First Female Prime Minister
Sanae Takaichi, former Japanese economic security minister, became the 104th prime minister of Japan on 21 October 2025.
Despite being Japan's first female prime minister, prominent Japanese feminists do not consider her victory a win for women, as
Japan's glass ceiling is composed not only of traditional sexist forces, but also feminist perspectives that only accept women who share their progressive outlook.
Takaichi is seen as a protege of the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, favouring economic expansion through loose monetary and fiscal regimes and adopting a hawkish stance on national security.
- Supports anti-espionage legislation
- Favours revisions to Japan's pacifist constitution
Author's summary: Takaichi becomes Japan's first female prime minister amidst mixed reactions.