http://www.economist.com/news/briefing/21599763-womens-lowly-status-japanese-workplace-has-barely-improved-decades-and-country
This article discusses the current situation in Japan concerning women and work. Women's lowly status in the Japanese workplace has barely improved in decades, and the country suffers as a result.
Shinzo Abe wants to change the way women are viewed in the workforce by making sure they are represented. The article states, "In April 2013 he announced that allowing women to “shine” in the economy was the most important part of his “Abenomics” growth strategy. Raising female labour participation to the level of men’s could add 8m people to Japan’s shrinking workforce, potentially increasing GDP by as much as 15%, according to Goldman Sachs, an investment bank."
What do you think about this article and do you think the situation of women in the workplace in Japan will improve in the years to come?
Women's status in the labor market cannot change over night. In a country that is growing at 1.7 per cent, job growth will be moderate at best.
ReplyDeleteI am doubtful that Shinzo Abe would be successful in implementing strong legislation to encourage more women to work in the labor force. Shinzo Abe is a very controversial politician in Japan, and partisan politics could discourage any helpful legislation. Any effort that Shinzo Abe purposes will likely be met with strong opposition from other political parties.
ReplyDeleteSince the Japanese economy is in a recovering stage, this seems to be a positive policy. However the situation is not going to change instantly, thus more concentration in job growth or increment would be a quicker way to get Japan back on track.
ReplyDeleteMr. Abe's weakest point was his knowledge on economics. But on his return to the PM's office, he has been studying economics and has realized that economics is the solution for Japan. I think that as Mr.Abe has already seen a downfall in his political career, he wouldn't want that to happen again and I think he can bring some developments in Japan's economy. His speeches have also been very critical of the monetary policies of the Bank of Japan. I think Mr. Abe does know where he is going and will bring changes...not sure though if they will be substantial enough.
ReplyDeleteUnderrepresentation of women in the work force is certainly not a phenomenon only in Japan, however, Abe's acknowledgment and plan for action for this problem is certainly a step in the right direction. With Japan's currently struggling economy, allowing more representation of women in the labor force will surely only help Abe's goals of a revival in the economy.
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