Japan’s first woman prime minister dismisses work-life balance: ‘I will work, work, work’
Posted on: Oct 22, 2025 12:14 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
nippon’s ruling liberalist popular company (LDP) leader Sanae Takaichi, 64, made account on Tuesday by becoming the country’s first woman prime minister, replacing Shigeru Ishiba. Her victory was secured through a coalition agreement between the LDP and the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), which gave her the parliamentary majority needed to take office.
A former minister for economic security and internal affairs, Takaichi has been a prominent figure in Japanese politics for nearly 30 years. Often described as ultraconservative, she is a long-time admirer of Britain’s former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, whom she calls her “political hero,” and has openly expressed her desire to “become the Iron Lady.”
(Also read: Sanae Takaichi elected as Japan's first female prime minister after winning historic vote)
In her first speech after elected leader of the LDP, Takaichi dismissed the concept of work-life balance, urging party members to embrace hard work instead.
“I myself will throw out the term ‘work-life balance,’” Takaichi said. “I will work and work and work and work and work.”
She also called on party lawmakers to “work like workhorses” – a statement that drew sharp criticism online.
“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. That is what I believe. There are many policies that need to be quickly implemented. 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,” PM Takaichi said.
Japan’s National Defence Council for Victims of Karoshi — a group addressing deaths caused by overwork — said her stance risked reviving a toxic overwork culture in a country already struggling with the issue. Families of victims of overwork-related suicides also condemned her remarks, calling for reflection and apology.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.