Controversy over female mayor's maternity leave in Japan: Kawata says how much discrimination is still prevalent against women in the country

Shoko Kawata, a 35-year-old mayor of the western Japanese city of Yawata, is six months pregnant and is planning to take four months of maternity leave. He would be Japan's first mayor to do so, but his plan has sparked a national debate in Japan. Many people supported him by sending him baby shoes and good wishes, but a section of the society termed it an irresponsible decision and accused him of giving priority to his personal life over the public. Kawata said the controversy made her realize for the first time how much discrimination still exists against women in Japan. There is also a separate term for discrimination against pregnant and working women in the country, such as "maternity harassment". Former General Toshio Tamogami wrote that people in public office should not take such long leave and women who are planning children should not contest elections. After growing protests, Kowata distanced himself from social media. Women's participation in 1,740 presidents of local bodies in Japan is still below 4%. "There should be an environment in the country where women can take maternity leave without discrimination.