National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)

We are pleased to invite you to the following symposium & documentary screening:

Theme: Equality Matters! Where does Japan stand?
Date and Time: Thursday, Sept. 3, 15:00 - 19:00 (documentary screening starts at 5pm)
Venue: GRIPS 1ABC/Soukairou Hall
Language: English (no translation will be provided)
Registration: Please register online
(https://goo.gl/nQLvIJ), or send an email to summerprogram@grips.ac.jp

[Background]
Japan has one of the worst levels of gender equality in the developed world coming in 104th out of 142 assessed countries according to a recent survey by the World Economic Forum. The gender pay gap in Japan at median earnings is the second highest in the OECD and increases with age. Whilst more Japanese women are accessing higher education, they pay a high price for motherhood in the way of childcare and tax deterring many from resuming paid work after becoming mothers.

Japan is also dragging its heels on the issue of marriage equality where same-sex couples are currently not afforded any protection under Japanese law. Whilst common arguments against marriage equality based on religion do not exist in Japan, many politicians have expressed concern that any change in the law would undermine tradition and pose a threat to Japanese households.

Particularly in the face of Japan's aging society, political, social and economic policy in trying to close the gap on inequality is urgently required so that Japan can maximize the potential of its workforce and thrive well into the future. In this symposium, the following presenters will discuss equality and why it matters, focusing on contemporary Japan and what the future holds for this country.

15:00~ Symposium
PANELLISTS
Ms. Ann Sado - Diversity and Inclusion Consultant Mr. Sven Palys - Director of the Equal Marriage Alliance Dr. Yolanda A. Tsuda - Gender and Migration Specialist, Kobe College Dr. David Milliot - Political Advisor, EU Delegation to Japan Ms. Hisako Matsui - Film director and producer

MODERATOR
Dr. Monika Ksieniewicz, GRIPS YLP; Equal Treatment Office, Poland

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17:00~ Documentary Film Screening
"What are you afraid of?" (115mins). With a special introduction from the Director, Ms. Hisako Matsui.
History of Women's Liberation Movement in Japan

In the summer of 1972, young women who were going through difficult days gathered for a women's liberation rally held in Iiyama City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Forty-five years has passed since that day as a starting point. What have been their experiences of being a woman? Leading Japanese feminists talk about their life stories.

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This symposium is part of the GRIPS Summer Program. In the Summer Program we offer a host of activities ranging from special lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips, cultural activities and a student conference. Many of these activities are open to the public and we invite you to check our Summer Program website
(http://www.grips.ac.jp/en/events/20150724-3374/) for further details.

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For Access & Map to the GRIPS campus:
http://www.grips.ac.jp/en/about/access/
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
7-22-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8677

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Karin Hillen
Secretariat, GRIPS Summer Program
summerprogram@grips.ac.jp
Tel: 03-6439-6047