Story perspectives

Sanae Takaichi Poised to Be Japan's First Female PM

10/5/2025

Center

Takaichi Becomes Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi is set to become Japan's first female prime minister after winning the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race.
She is known for controversial views on Taiwan and wartime history.
China's foreign ministry called the election internal, urging Japan to honor history and Taiwan.
U.S. and Israel congratulated Takaichi, signaling deeper ties with Japan as Japan-China relations remain strained.

Right

Takaichi's Controversial Policies

Sanae Takaichi's wartime history views, including 'self-defense' claims, risk straining regional ties worldwide.
Yasukuni Shrine visits heighten tensions with neighbors.
Experts warn Takaichi's conservative policies may threaten ties with South Korea and stability with China.
Her proposal for a quasi-security alliance with Taiwan could destabilize East Asia.
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s lack of majority complicates pursuing nationalist aims.

History

Historical Context

In 1945, Japan granted women the right to vote, a culmination of decades of activism dating back to the late 19th century. Organizations like the Tokyo Federation of Women's Organizations and the League for the Realization of Women's Suffrage fought for political rights amid societal changes. This shift enabled women like Sanae Takaichi to enter politics, influencing Japan's contemporary political landscape and its relations with neighboring countries.

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Takaichi Becomes Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi is set to become Japan's first female prime minister after winning the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race.
She is known for controversial views on Taiwan and wartime history.
China's foreign ministry called the election internal, urging Japan to honor history and Taiwan.
U.S. and Israel congratulated Takaichi, signaling deeper ties with Japan as Japan-China relations remain strained.

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