A recent government survey in Japan reveals troubling insights into the experiences of women in local political assemblies. Conducted by the Cabinet Office and released on June 6, the study found that more than half of the women serving in these roles have faced harassment, significantly higher than their male counterparts.
According to the survey, 53.8% of female assembly members reported experiencing various forms of harassment, including humiliating remarks and physical altercations. In contrast, only 23.6% of male assembly members reported similar experiences.
Deliberations in the Kyoto city assembly on June 6, 2025. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo
Despite a gradual increase in female representation, women remain significantly underrepresented in local politics. As of December 2024, women comprised only 14.6% of prefectural assemblies and 19.5% of city councils; alarmingly, 21.2% of town and village assemblies had no female members at all.
When asked to specify who harassed them, 65.7% of assemblywomen indicated it was other candidates, their supporters, or fellow assembly members, while 64.0% identified voters as harassers. The types of harassment varied, with higher reported rates of “degrading attitudes or remarks stemming from unconscious gender bias,” as well as “physical encounters or stalking,” which included inappropriate touching and hugging. Sexual comments were also frequently reported.
The study highlighted the role of unconscious bias as a significant obstacle to increasing female representation in politics. Traditional expectations, which dictate that women should prioritize domestic duties, continue to hinder their participation in public life.
The survey, conducted between November and December of the previous year, involved responses from 3,859 male participants, 1,213 female participants, and three individuals who chose not to disclose their gender.
For further insights, you may explore related issues:
- Japan lags in closing gender gap: government report
- Bullying victim quit prestigious Japan national elementary school
- 35% of local public servants abused by residents: Japan gov’t survey
