Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan's First Female Prime Minister, Shifts Political Landscape

On October 21, 2025, Japan's parliament elected Sanae Takaichi as the nation's first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone in the country's political landscape. Takaichi, 64, a known ultraconservative and protégé of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, secured 237 votes in the 465-seat lower house, surpassing the majority threshold. She succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned following the Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) significant electoral losses in July.

Takaichi's ascent to the premiership comes amid a period of political upheaval. The LDP, after losing its long-time coalition partner Komeito, formed a new alliance with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (Ishin). This coalition is expected to shift the governing bloc further to the right. Despite breaking the gender barrier, Takaichi has not prioritized gender equality, opposing same-sex marriage and policies promoting women's advancement. She appointed only two women to her cabinet: Satsuki Katayama as finance minister and Kimi Onoda as economic security minister.

Born in 1961 in Nara Prefecture, Takaichi's political career began in the 1980s during heightened trade tensions between the U.S. and Japan. In 1996, she was elected to a parliamentary seat with the LDP and became known as one of the party's most vocal conservative voices. She has been elected as an MP ten times, suffering only one defeat.

Takaichi's administration faces several challenges, including economic issues, diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, and maintaining stability within the newly formed coalition government. Her nationalist leanings and visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine have drawn criticism and could impact Japan's international relations.

In her inaugural press conference, Takaichi emphasized the importance of political stability, stating, "Without stability, we cannot push measures for a strong economy or diplomacy." She also reaffirmed Japan's commitment to the U.S.-Japan alliance, describing it as a "cornerstone" of Japanese diplomacy.

Takaichi's election as the first female prime minister is a significant milestone in Japan's male-dominated political landscape. However, her conservative stance on gender issues, including opposition to same-sex marriage and female imperial succession, suggests limited progress in gender equality under her leadership. Critics argue that her policies may not advance women's rights or LGBTQ+ issues in Japan.

As Takaichi assumes office, the nation watches closely to see how her leadership will navigate the complex political and economic challenges ahead, and what her historic election will mean for the future of gender equality in Japan.