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Japan's new 'Iron Lady' PM Takaichi: A 'do-er' poised to bring stability

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 10:22 GMT by Channel NewsAsia Singapore
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Japan’s First Female Prime Minister: Sanae Takaichi’s Historic Appointment and the Road Ahead

In a landmark moment for Japanese politics, former foreign affairs minister Sanae Takaichi was sworn in as the nation’s first female prime minister on 12 October 2023. The transition followed the resignation of Fumio Kishida, who stepped down amid a series of internal party disputes and a declining public approval rating. Takaichi, a seasoned diplomat and long‑time member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is set to navigate Japan through a complex mix of domestic challenges and international tensions while breaking new ground for women in political leadership.

From Diplomacy to the Top Desk

Takaichi’s ascent to the premiership is rooted in a decade‑long career in Japan’s foreign service. After graduating from Kyoto University’s political science faculty, she joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1985 and quickly made a name for herself with her adept handling of regional security issues. Her most prominent role came in 2015 when she was appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs, making her the first woman to hold that office. In that position, Takaichi championed Japan’s stance against Chinese maritime expansion in the South China Sea, pushed for stronger ties with the United States, and negotiated the comprehensive security partnership with Australia and India.

Her diplomatic credentials earned her the nickname “Sanae the Diplomat,” and she has been a fixture on the international stage for more than two decades. The LDP, long dominated by male leaders, had been grappling with a gender imbalance in its ranks; Takaichi’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to modernize the party’s image and broaden its appeal to voters, particularly younger and female constituents.

Political Context: The LDP’s Fragile Dominance

The LDP has governed Japan since 1955, albeit with intermittent interruptions. Its current dominance is under threat from rising public discontent over perceived complacency, economic stagnation, and growing regional security risks. The resignation of Prime Minister Kishida was precipitated by his failure to secure a stable majority after a contentious party leadership election in August 2023. Takaichi’s election as party president, backed by the factional heavyweight Keiji Yamada, signaled a consolidation of power among moderate and conservative elements of the LDP, but it also exposed deep fractures.

Analysts point to the party’s “Sakigake” (trailblazer) initiative—a plan to broaden representation of women, minorities, and younger politicians—as a key factor in Takaichi’s support base. She is expected to continue this trend, although her cabinet appointments will be scrutinized for gender balance. In her inaugural speech, Takaichi pledged to prioritize “economic revitalization, social security reform, and a robust foreign policy that safeguards Japan’s national interests.”

Key Policy Priorities

1. Economic Revitalization

Japan’s economy has been grappling with deflationary pressures and a shrinking workforce. Takaichi plans to expand the “growth strategy” by boosting domestic consumption, incentivizing innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence, and re‑evaluating corporate tax policy. Her government intends to accelerate the transition to green technology, aligning with the national commitment to net‑zero emissions by 2050. The policy package includes a ¥2 trillion investment in renewable energy infrastructure and a new “Japan Innovation Fund” to support startups in the technology and life sciences sectors.

2. Social Security and Demographic Challenges

Japan’s aging population poses a significant fiscal burden. Takaichi’s agenda includes reforms to the pension system, expanding eldercare services, and incentives for higher fertility rates. She proposes a new “Family Support Tax Credit” that would reduce child‑care costs for families with three or more children, aiming to reverse the decline in birth rates. The policy also involves expanding remote work opportunities and revising the legal framework to support flexible caregiving arrangements.

3. Foreign Policy and Security

Given her extensive diplomatic background, Takaichi is expected to adopt a hard‑line stance on China’s regional assertiveness while maintaining strong trans‑pacific ties. She will likely continue the administration’s efforts to secure supply chain resilience and promote free‑trade agreements with the United States, ASEAN, and the European Union. In the security arena, she plans to increase Japan’s defense budget, enhance the Self‑Defense Forces’ cyber‑defense capabilities, and strengthen Japan’s participation in multinational coalition operations.

Domestic and International Reactions

Domestic analysts highlight Takaichi’s experience and reputation as strengths, noting that she has built trust across both the political establishment and international partners. However, critics point to the LDP’s continued reliance on conservative factions and the risk that her gender may be used symbolically rather than substantively. Some opposition lawmakers caution that her leadership might not bring substantive change to the party’s entrenched patronage systems.

Internationally, her appointment was warmly welcomed. The United States praised Japan’s progress in gender equality, while Australian officials noted the importance of a stable Japanese government for regional security. Chinese media, however, expressed skepticism, citing concerns over Japan’s “aggressive” foreign policy stance.

Linking to Broader Trends in East Asia

The article on Channel News Asia also references Japan’s role within the broader East Asian context, particularly its relationships with South Korea and Taiwan. Takaichi’s tenure is expected to see heightened diplomatic engagement with Seoul to address the lingering security and trade tensions, as well as increased support for Taiwan amid China’s growing influence. Analysts anticipate that Japan’s proactive stance could reshape the strategic balance in the region.

Conclusion

Sanae Takaichi’s historic ascension to Japan’s prime ministerial office marks a pivotal shift in the country’s political landscape. With a formidable background in diplomacy and a clear policy agenda that addresses economic, social, and security challenges, she faces the daunting task of steering Japan through a period of unprecedented regional uncertainty. Her leadership will be closely watched, both as a symbol of progress for women in politics and as a test of Japan’s ability to adapt its policies to the evolving demands of the 21st century. The nation, its allies, and the international community will undoubtedly be eager to see whether Takaichi’s premiership will herald a new era of stability and innovation for Japan.