EXPO 2025 – Osaka, Japan

Nordic Gender Equality Day

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How does gender equality affect economic development? Hear the thoughts of Halla Nolsøe Poulsen

Nordic Gender Equality Day brought policymakers, academics, and advocates together to exchange Nordic and Japanese experiences on how equality drives innovation, growth, and demographic sustainability. Panels examined topics such as gender roles in media, leadership, and labour markets.

"Gender equality is a cornerstone of the recently agreed Japanese-Nordic diplomatic initiative. Nordic experiences with gender equality and Japanese experiences with innovation make a combination that can serve as an example to ourselves and on the global stage," highlighted Sirið Stenberg, Faroese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade.

Hear the thoughts of Mashiro Kuniyuki on Nordic gender equality perspectives

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Conclusion

Both regions share demographic challenges – ageing populations and declining birth rates – and recognise that gender equality is key to building resilient, innovative economies. The event highlighted that trust-based governance, social innovation, and inclusive workplaces are central to competitiveness.

Gender equality is a cornerstone of the recently agreed Japanese-Nordic diplomatic initiative. Nordic experiences with gender equality and Japanese experiences with innovation make a combination that can serve as an example to ourselves and on the global stage.
Sirið Stenberg, Faroese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade.

Nordic Contribution

The Nordic Council of Ministers presented the Nordic model for gender equality, emphasising policy tools, legislation, and partnerships that have made the Nordics global leaders in equality. The discussions paved the way for deeper cooperation between Nordic and Japanese stakeholders in media, research, and policymaking.

“When women and men participate on equal terms in the labour market and in the home, society becomes more innovative, inclusive and economically sustainable,” said Ida Heimann Larsen, Deputy Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers.