Women Are Paid Less by Default
In Japan, there is a gender pay gap issue where women are often paid less than men for performing the same work or similar roles. While this is considered unacceptable and a matter of concern in many other parts of the world, it is unfortunately perceived as more commonplace in Japan. Efforts to address and rectify this imbalance in pay and promote gender equality in the workplace have been ongoing, but there is still progress to be made to achieve equal pay for equal work in the country.
In Japanese culture, there is a traditional practice where married women often manage the household finances and are responsible for budgeting and spending decisions. It is common for husbands to give their salaries to their wives, who then allocate and manage the household expenses. This practice is known as “kawase” or “kawasei” and has historical roots in the idea of women being responsible for the family’s finances and well-being. However, it’s important to note that societal norms and roles are evolving in modern Japan, and not all families adhere to this traditional arrangement. Many couples now share financial responsibilities more equally, reflecting changing gender dynamics and economic realities in contemporary Japanese society.
