Tokyo Governor Koike’s Video Message on International Women’s Day

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) has positioned the promotion of women’s empowerment as one of its key issues, and is working to realize a better future by addressing gender equality, in keeping with the legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games. To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, as designated by the United Nations, Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko released a video message today.

Video Link

https://youtu.be/YgUhQldt_4o (External link)

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International Women’s Day 2022 Governor’s Video Message

March 8 is “International Women’s Day.” As the international situation becomes ever more challenging and difficult, it is increasingly important to advance “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.”

We have witnessed the power of gender equality and diversity at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games which, I am proud to say, were gender balanced.

Tokyo is actively promoting a “sustainable recovery” to build a more sustainable future for all people, in order to accelerate the international trend of economic and social recovery from COVID-19, as well as to address environmental issues. Gender equality is also essential to all our efforts.

The global challenges that the world is facing, such as the international crisis as well as the climate crisis, disasters, and infectious diseases, have a greater impact on vulnerable groups in society. We are now facing these issues head-on, and are already actively utilizing the perspectives and voices of women, youth, and people with impairments in our policies.

It is not just policies but the people themselves who will build the future in every era. And almost half of the world’s citizens are women. If we do not utilize the power of women, we will not be able to achieve a truly sustainable recovery.

Therefore, on International Women’s Day and beyond, I would like to convey my sincere wish that all people, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity or impairments, can realize their potentials and work together for a bright and vibrant future.

About International Women’s Day

Originating from the labor movements in early 20th Century North America and Europe, International Women’s Day was first observed by the United Nations on March 8, 1975, and was then officially adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1977 as an appeal to eliminate discrimination against women and improve the status of women. The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.”