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Japanese Mayor Shoko Kawata Named to TIME100 Next

Japanese Mayor Shoko Kawata Named to TIME100 Next
Japanese Mayor Who Sparked Maternity Leave Debate Makes TIME100 Next: Why this Matters · timesnownews.com

Shoko Kawata is a mayor in Japan.

She is 36 years old.

Earlier this year, she said she would take maternity leave.

This was unusual because she is the first sitting mayor in Japan reported to do so.

Her decision led to a lot of debate and criticism.

Kawata continued to stand by her decision.

She became well known internationally because of the discussion.

TIME has now included her in its TIME100 Next list of influential rising stars.

Key facts

Person
Shoko Kawata
Age
36
Office
Mayor of Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture
Historic distinction
First sitting mayor in Japan to announce maternity leave
Election
Elected in 2023
Recognition
Named among TIME100 Next’s 100 influential rising stars

Sources

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