ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Japan’s efforts for gender equality and women’s empowerment, both at home and abroad, focusing on the implications of recently accelerated efforts since December 2012 under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Abe has fostered gender equality and empowerment through policy changes, including enhanced labor participation by women in Japan and women-focused development through Official Development Assistance (ODA). These initiatives are based on a foundation of almost thirty years of experiences and efforts toward gender equality in both domestic and foreign policies, as well as a reflection on Japan’s wartime past.
