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Are women politicians outperformed by men? The impact of gender on legislative activity in Japan

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  • Yue Yin

Abstract

Objectives Given the distinct political landscape of Japan, this study aims to explore the impact of gender on the parliamentary behavior of Japanese legislators. Methods Utilizing a self‐constructed data set covering the 44th–48th Diets (2005–2021), this study examines the individual‐level parliamentary activities of male and female legislators in Japan. Key metrics analyzed include the frequency of speeches delivered in both plenary and committee sessions, alongside the submission of memorandums to the Diet. Results The findings indicate that on the whole, gender exerts only a minimal effect on parliamentary activities. However, upon closer examination of members belonging to opposition parties during specific time periods, female legislators emerge as more active in terms of questioning and memorandum submission compared to their male counterparts. Conclusion This study unveils a noteworthy trend wherein women legislators in Japan demonstrate equal or greater engagement in parliamentary activities than their male counterparts. These findings underscore the importance of exploring gender dynamics within political systems beyond the Western sphere. Moreover, they emphasize the necessity for ongoing research into gender representation and participation within Japan's political arena.

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  • Yue Yin, 2024. "Are women politicians outperformed by men? The impact of gender on legislative activity in Japan," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 105(3), pages 636-654, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:105:y:2024:i:3:p:636-654
    DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.13389
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kathlene, Lyn, 1994. "Power and Influence in State Legislative Policymaking: The Interaction of Gender and Position in Committee Hearing Debates," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 88(3), pages 560-576, September.
    2. Norris, Pippa & Lovenduski, Joni, 1993. "‘If Only More Candidates Came Forward’: Supply-Side Explanations of Candidate Selection in Britain," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 23(3), pages 373-408, July.
    3. Raghabendra Chattopadhyay & Esther Duflo, 2004. "Women as Policy Makers: Evidence from a Randomized Policy Experiment in India," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 72(5), pages 1409-1443, September.
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