Minister’s Message on International Women’s Day 2026

Ladies and gentlemen, I am KIKAWADA Hitoshi, Minister in charge of Women’s Empowerment and Minister of Gender Equality.
　

March 8 is International Women’s Day. On this day, various initiatives related to women’s empowerment and gender equality are carried out in Japan and around the world. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on how far women have expanded their potential in fields such as politics, the economy, and culture, and to renew our determination to make further progress.
　

I would like to express my deepest respect and gratitude to everyone who is devoted to promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality. I also wish to celebrate this important day together with all of you who share the same aspirations.
　

Last year in Japan, for the first time in our constitutional history, a woman was appointed Prime Minister. This groundbreaking development broke through the so‑called “glass ceiling.” Having a woman at the center of Japanese politics has helped dispel the assumption that “politics is conducted by men,” and has encouraged many women to challenge themselves. I hope that women’s empowerment will continue to accelerate in politics, the economy, and all other sectors.
　

The Government of Japan will continue to advance initiatives that allow all workers to choose the working style they desire and fully demonstrate their abilities. We will also work to ensure that women participate in decision‑making in all areas of society, making this a shared goal of both the public and private sectors.
　

In April, the Japan Gender Equality Promotion Agency will be established as a national center for the promotion of women’s empowerment and gender equality. This agency will provide strong support to local governments, gender equality centers, and other organizations addressing various challenges, thereby bolstering efforts nationwide.
　

Furthermore, we would like to share Japan’s initiatives with not only the Japanese people but people around the world by making use of international conferences, and we will continue moving forward in cooperation with the international community.
　

Finally, as the minister responsible for women’s empowerment and gender equality, I would like to conclude my message on this International Women’s Day with a pledge to continue promoting policies that contribute to the happiness of every member of society.

March 8, 2026

KIKAWADA Hitoshi

Minister in charge of Women’s Empowerment
Minister of Gender Equality