Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
For decades, women in Japan have advocated for gender equality, especially for increased support in entering the work force. However, it has been difficult to increase women’s rights without compromising traditional ideals. As more women needed to enter the workforce in the 1990s due to economic circumstances, gender equality has become increasingly called into question. The role of the office lady and the role of female politicians reflect the limited role women have in the workplace. This is reinforced by state legislation, which are created by a government overrepresented by men. These policies aim to promote economic development and address the national issues of low birth rate, economic stagnation, and decreased labor participation. However, this paper argues that gender inequality in Japan is perpetuated by traditional social values that influence employment practices and government policy, exemplified by women's limited role in the workplace and the political system.
Keywords: Japanese women, gendered division of labor, women’s rights, Liberal Democratic Party, gender equality, office lady/ladies (OL), women in politics
Recommended Citation
Kehrwieder, Sierra, "Japanese Women in the Workforce: Tradition Versus Equality" (2024). International Studies Undergraduate Honors Theses. 2.
https://scholarworks.seattleu.edu/etds-intl-std-theses/2