Women Mass Organizations and War in 20th Century Japan – An Overview

  • Susy Ong
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Abstract

Gender inequality is a ‘sexy topic’ for students and research on Japan in Indonesia. Many students and
even experts wonder why in such a modern and prosperous society like Japan, women lack
behind men in almost every aspect of social life, especially being excluded from social and
economic participation. Most of the experts rationalize by pointing to ‘ryosai kenbo’ (good wife, wise
mother) as cultural or traditional value that confine women in domestic sphere. In this essay, I argue,
by presenting historical facts and data, that Japanese women were encouraged to and they did actively
participate in public sphere during the wartime in the 20th century.
Keyword: women patriotic organization, women emancipation and war participation

Published
2023-01-02