Shifting Currents: Japan’s Political Revival

This fall, Japan entered a rare moment of political transition as hardline conservative leader Sanae Takaichi became the country’s new prime minister — the first woman to hold the position in Japanese history. Her appointment came at a time when Japan faces persistent demographic decline, economic stagnation, and widening generational divides. Youth unemployment remains low in many Western democracies, yet young people continue to struggle with rising living costs, rigid career paths, and a political structure often seen as unresponsive to their priorities. For readers interested in how similar economic pressures shape youth politics elsewhere, our previous post offers additional insight.

In Japan’s current political climate, I turn to a friend of mine to help translate how Japan’s youth view this transition — not through dramatic protests, but through quiet reflection that reveals a subtle shift from past generations.

In Urayasu, Chiba, lives 17-year-old Issa. When asked whether young people today want different types of leaders than older generations, he responds simply but firmly:

“Yes, I think so. Personally, I think it’s good that she became prime minister,” he explains — a sentiment that reflects a growing openness among youth toward leaders who break away from the traditional mold of older male politicians. While older generations often prioritize stability and party loyalty, younger people tend to focus more on representation, transparency, and policies that address modern challenges.

Issa, 17, lives in Urayasu, Chiba.

Still, Issa highlights a defining feature of youth politics in Japan: disconnect.

Asked whether people his age discuss politics, he responds plainly:

“I don’t think anyone really talks about it.”

— 17, Issa, from Urayasu, Chiba

His words capture a prominent trend — young people may have opinions, but political conversation rarely enters daily life. For many, politics feels distant, overly formal, or something reserved for adults. Without exposure to political discussion at home or school, engagement remains low, even as quiet curiosity and awareness continue to grow. In the 2021 lower-house election, turnout amongst 18-19 year olds was just 43.06% in single-seat constituencies — compared with around 53.85% overall (2024, Japan Forward). Additionally, polls show that 90% of 18-year-olds believe that Japanese politics is "not clean" and over 80% feel politicians lack accountability (2024, Nippon).

Issa’s perspective highlights a subtle but meaningful shift in how young people think about leadership in Japan. While they may not flood the streets in protest, their expectations are evolving. The fact that Issa welcomes a new, female prime minister suggests that younger generations are beginning to value representation and more modern approaches, even if they remain hesitant to voice their opinions publicly.

At the same time, his observation about the lack of political discussion among peers reflects a persistent challenge: bridging the gap between the concept of awareness and engagement. Youth may recognize the need for change, but without opportunities to participate — in schools, communities, or online platforms — these ideas risk remaining private thoughts rather than shaping Japanese society.

Issa’s story demonstrates that Japan’s political transformation is not only about leadership changes at the top, but also about the quieter, less visible evolution of its youth. Even as Takaichi assumes office, the attitudes of young people like Issa hint at how the next generation may redefine what politics looks like in Japan: more inclusive, attentive to diverse perspectives, and gradually more willing to engage.

To explore ways to empower young people in Japan and foster political engagement, consider the work of The Nippon Foundation’s Youth Initiative, which supports civic education, youth leadership programs, and community projects across the country. You can also visit the Resource Hub under One of Many’s Take Action tab for more organizations dedicated to helping young people worldwide understand and participate in politics.