BBC
Why maternity leave for a mayor has divided Japan
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Shoko Kawata, 35, the mayor of Nagi, Okayama Prefecture, announced she will take maternity leave following the birth of her child. Kawata stated she is proud to be taking time off and said she loves her job. The announcement prompted public discussion in Japan regarding maternity leave for elected officials. Kawata was elected mayor in 2022.
Original reporting: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1mykzj15xno?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss