Japan has often been in the spotlight for its gender inequality issues. While the nation has made significant advancements in various sectors, the gender gap remains a stubborn challenge. The problem was put under the spotlight…again… when it was revealed that no women were appointed among vice ministers and parliamentary secretaries in the recent Cabinet formation, a first since the LDP's return to power in 2012. While Prime Minister Kishida appointed a record-tying five women as Cabinet ministers,  This makes only 7% of the Cabinet, vice ministers, and parliamentary secretaries being women.