Beyond Womenomics: Women’s Activism and Civil Society in Japan

Linda Hasunuma, Assistant Professor of Government, Franklin and Marshall College

Since 3.11, there has been a resurgence of political activism, especially among women. Activists, NPOs (non-profit organizations), NGOs (non-governmental organizations), and voluntary organizations help women manage needs related to the disasters and prolonged relocation. These organizations provide services and create spaces for women’s empowerment and care. Yet by finding solutions outside of the political system, the gap between civil society—where women are active and engaged—and Japan’s political institutions has deepened, further marginalizing women from the political process. For women to become equal members of Japan’s democratic community, Japan must go beyond womenomics and focus on women at the grassroots. How have recent changes to the political landscape impacted women’s equality in Japan, and what are the implications for Japanese democracy?

Sponsored by The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership and part of the Yale Project on Japan’s Politics and Diplomacy Series
 

Friday, February 19, 2016
12:00pm to 1:30pm
Room 241, Rosenkranz Hall
115 Prospect Street