Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn significant attention and triggered a national debate regarding gender roles following comments about the extra time she must dedicate to her daily routine. During a parliamentary session on Wednesday, Takaichi argued that she works longer hours than her male predecessors because she is required to manage domestic responsibilities and personal grooming.
"In the morning, I take a bath, fix breakfast and do the dishes, then apply makeup," Takaichi told a parliamentary session Wednesday. "Doing these things, I feel I'm spending three or four more hours than male prime ministers." Additionally, she noted that it took time for her aides to understand that she requires extra preparation to ensure she is presentable before appearing on camera.
These remarks have placed Takaichi’s performance under intense scrutiny. Her focus on chores, bathing, and makeup has faced backlash, as critics argue that her comments promote outdated gender roles. Furthermore, the discussion has touched upon the broader issue of excessive working hours, a problem that has long persisted within Japanese society.
Being a prime minister is tough, with daily schedule packed with meetings and hourslong parliamentary sessions
