Globalisation, gaiatsu, and women in Japanese politics

Gaiatsu (foreign or external pressure) has provided opportunities for women's organisations and feminists to expand their influence in Japanese politics. Three case studies illustrate the different ways in which international pressure has contributed to the development of women's networking and efforts to foster gender equality through public policies. These case studies examine the drafting and revising of Japan's Equal Employment Opportunity Law, the reform of development policies to incorporate gender-sensitive practices, and the creation of a transnational coalition seeking apology and compensation from the Japanese government for its use of “comfort women” during the Asia-Pacific War.