Sanae Takaichi has become the first woman to lead the Japanese government after being elected prime minister by the lower house of the Diet. Takaichi, a representative of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) with an ultraconservative stance, succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who left the post after a brief leadership marked by electoral defeats. Their arrival marks a symbolic milestone in a society where the gender gap is notable, especially in politics and business. Despite being seen as an 'Iron Lady' in the style of Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi does not seem to lean toward feminist policies, although she promises to increase women's participation in politics.
Takaichi's ascent was facilitated by an agreement with the Innovation Party (Ishin) after the traditional coalition with Komeito had broken up. With a political background dating back to the 1990s, Takaichi faces internal and external challenges, from inflation and low birth rates to trade tensions with the United States. In addition, it seeks to revise the pacifist constitution, which underscores its nationalist stance. His policy is influenced by the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whose economic strategies he promises to continue. Despite the skepticism, their appointment represents a turning point in the fight for gender equity in Japan.
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