5. Women in power and decision-making

(1) Low representation of women in the public sector

Women's participation in the policy decision-making process is not only the request of democracy, but is also indispensable in that women's concern can then be reflected upon various policies. However it has long been pointed out that women's participation in decision making for policies and administrative measure in the public fields as well as in the private fields remains seriously undeveloped. UNDP (United Nations Development Program) study shows that Japan ranks 8th ( among 174 countries studied) by HDI (Human Development Index), but falls to 38th ( among 102 countries) by GEM (Gender Empowerment Measurement). To rectify this situation and to further promote the hiring, appointment, job selection and capacity building of women civil servants, study is going on by all ministries to inaugurate periodical surveys and disclose the results of the surveys on the situation of hiring and promoting women civil servants, and to draw up a plan where necessary for tackling the issues to be improved.
Note;
HDI ( Human Development Index) A composite indexes that measures the level of achievement with respect to the three basic capabilities of "longevity and the ability to remain healthy till the end of life", "knowledge" and " a decent standard of living".
The index is calculated from average life span, educational level ( adult literacy rate and school attendance rate), and the gross national income.
The HDI shows the average situation for the entire nation, and does not take into account the inequities existing between different groups of society.
*GEM (Gender Empowerment Measure) An index that shows the degree to which women are active and participate in the decision making process in business and politics.
Whereas the HDI is focused on expanding the individual's ability, GEM is used as a criterion to measure the extent to which such abilities are translated into opportunities for women.
The basis for the measurement is the ratio of women's earned income, the ratio of women professionals appointed to expert, technical and managerial positions, and the ratio of women among parliamentarians.