Japan’s political parties work to field more female candidates for upcoming elections

Supporters call for more women to serve in the Diet during an upper house election campaign in Hiroshima in April 2021. (Credit: The Yomiuri Shimbun)

Both the ruling and opposition parties are working to field more female candidates in the House of Councillors election this summer, aiming to demonstrate their commitment to women's empowerment.

Some parties have created their own support system, but a number of issues remain to increase the number of female candidates.