Japan’s First Woman Prime Minister Rejects Work-Life Balance: ‘I Will Work, Work, Work’

Japan has taken a remarkable step forward by announcing the selection of Sanae Takaichi as the first woman prime minister of the country, who will succeed Shigeru Ishiba. The 64-year-old leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was able to unite with the conservative Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), thus taking the necessary parliamentary majority to get into power.

Takaichi dismisses work-life balance

In her first address as LDP leader, Takaichi made it clear that she rejects the notion of work-life balance, encouraging party members to embrace hard work instead.

“I myself will throw out the term ‘work-life balance,’” she declared. “I will work and work and work and work and work.” She further urged lawmakers to “work like workhorses,” remarks that have sparked widespread criticism online.

Takaichi, a former minister for economic security and internal affairs, has been a prominent figure in Japanese politics for nearly three decades. Known for her ultraconservative views, she openly admires former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, calling her “my political hero” and expressing a desire to emulate the “Iron Lady.”

Prioritizing work over personal life

In her speech, she emphasized the need for relentless effort to implement policies quickly and reinvigorate the LDP. “At this moment, rather than feeling happy, I feel the hardship that is to come. There is an overwhelming amount of work that we must do together,” she said. “Together, we will make the LDP a more spirited, positive, and energetic party. Efforts are also required to make LDP a party that can turn people's anxieties into hope.”

Criticism from overwork advocacy groups

Takaichi's remarks elicited strong responses from human rights advocates and the general public. The victims' national defense council of Japan warned that her position might further strengthen the already existing negative overwork culture in the country. On the other hand, the families of those who committed suicide due to overwork also expressed their disapproval and called the prime minister to reconsider his position and apologize.