In an interview with NHK, members of the advisory body that made recommendations on gender equality to Prime Minister Kishida ahead of next week's G7 Hiroshima Summit emphasized that data showing the impact on the economy is necessary for countries to take action as policies, and that discussions should be held at the summit to achieve equality.
The Gender Equality Advisory Council, an advisory body that makes recommendations on gender equality to G7 leaders, compiled its recommendations ahead of the G7 Hiroshima Summit next week and handed them to Prime Minister Kishida on June 8.
In an interview with NHK on May 9, Maxime Winat, a member of the committee that compiled the recommendations and who serves as Regional Director for East and South Africa at UN Women, emphasized that "gender equality is not only about women, but also about families, communities, and nations, and if it can be realized, it will benefit men as well."
The proposal lists specific pillars that governments should address include budgeting for domestic and international projects aimed at gender equality, ensuring equal opportunities for education, removing stereotypes of men and women through education, and visualizing gender disparities and collecting and utilizing data.
Ms. Winart pointed out that "there is no data that shows the contribution of women to the economy, such as how much they pay for childcare and caregiving," and said that countries need data showing their impact on the economy in order to address gender equality policies.
"Women and children suffer the most when conflict breaks out, so it is important to create an environment that protects women and provides them with what they need," she said, pointing out that now that clashes are taking place in Ukraine and Sudan, measures are needed to protect women's rights.
He also stated, "It is necessary for the G7 to put this proposal on the table and lead to concrete actions," and emphasized that discussions should be held at the G7 Hiroshima Summit and linked to global efforts.