Japan sets a new record as 30% of male corporate workers have taken child care leave following new government regulations. This surge can be credited to the government’s awareness campaigns launched in 2022 to promote paternity leave uptake among businesses.
The health ministry’s report released on Oct. 1, 2023, reveals a 13 percentage point increase from the previous year, indicating a positive shift towards more involved fatherhood in the workforce. The survey, which included responses from 3,495 companies, highlights the impact of government policies in reshaping cultural norms around parenting responsibilities.
This milestone marks a significant step towards achieving better work-life balance for employees in Japan. As more fathers take on child care responsibilities, businesses are encouraged to facilitate a supportive environment for employees seeking to balance work and family life.