Evaluating the Impact of Labor Market and Pension Policies on the Rise of Elderly Female Poverty in Japan

Japan’s mix of demographic and gender-equity challenges create a unique case study regarding the rise of elderly female poverty. This paper explores different factors that contribute to high poverty risks among Japan’s most vulnerable population. By analyzing the nation’s economic landscape, gender parity obstacles, and demographic crisis, this paper presents how Japan’s current labor market and pension policies impact the elderly female population. Based on findings from academic research articles, news, and published data, this paper outlines policies for the Japanese government and corporations that would improve financial prospects for women post-retirement. Overall, this paper concludes that the Japanese government must uplift the status of women in the labor market and modernize pension policies to reflect women as individuals, rather than seeing them as dependent spouses of male breadwinners.