🇯🇵 Sanae Takaichi
Japans Takaichi says housework and even makeup keep her busier than her male predecessors
What happened
Takaichi stated that she spends three to four hours more on household chores and personal activities, such as bathing, making breakfast, and applying makeup, than male prime ministers. She also mentioned taking piles of documents home to read after midnight. Takaichi has a packed schedule, with a grueling work routine that includes working until dawn and reading documents late at night. She has also been criticized for promoting an exhausting work culture in Japan.
Why it matters
Takaichi's comments have drawn attention to the work-life balance in Japan, where excessive working hours have been a concern. Her remarks have sparked scrutiny of her work culture and efficiency in her role. The debate highlights the cultural differences in work habits between Japan and other countries.
Key facts
- Takaichi sleeps 2-4 hours a night
- She works from home and uses her official residence to maximize efficiency
- She has been criticized for promoting an unhealthy work culture
- Takaichi has been known to hold or prepare for meetings as early as 3am
Official statement
“In the morning, I bathe, fix breakfast, and then wash dishes, not to mention apply makeup,”
🇯🇵 Sanae Takaichi · Full statement & source
Topics
Publisher evidence used
Reporting attributed to independent.co.uk. WorldLeadersNews links readers to the publisher and does not present a headline-only item as a full article analysis.
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