Shoko Kawata named to TIME 100 rising stars list

Shoko Kawata, the mayor of Yawata City in Kyoto Prefecture, has been named to TIME Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential rising stars. Kawata, 36, is recognized for becoming one of the first female mayors in Japan to take maternity leave, setting a precedent in a country where no legal framework currently governs such leave for local elected officials.

Kawata, who was elected at age 33, gave birth to a daughter on September 15. Her decision sparked a national debate in Japan regarding the ability of elected officials to take time off for childbirth. While supporters praised her for creating a path for other women in politics and addressing the challenges of Japan’s declining birth rate, critics labeled the move “irresponsible,” with some suggesting that officials should resign if they intend to take extended leave.

To manage her duties during her 16-week leave, Kawata worked with her office to transfer executive authority to deputy mayor Shigeto Nose and continued to work remotely whenever possible. Kawata has defended her decision, stating that criticizing politicians for taking maternity leave effectively excludes women in their 20s through 40s from public office.