Fukushima's nuclear water release plan is facing backlash. 70% of Japanese are against the discharge plan as nuclear radiation levels are already high in Fukushima. It can threaten Marine environment as well.

Fukushima's nuclear water release plan faces backlash

Japan PM Kishida has warned against the war in East Asia amid China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The US also said that tensions are soaring with Beijing.

Japan PM warns of growing Chinese influence as tensions simmer in the Indo-Pacific region

Japan PM Kishida has warned against war in East Asia amid China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific region. US also said that tensions are soaring with Beijing.

Japan PM warns against war in East Asia as tensions simmer in Indo-Pacific region

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida has warned against war in East Asia amid China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific region. For more perspective, we're joined by Kuan-Ting Chen, CEO of Taiwan NextGen Foundation, a think-tank.

Tensions simmer in Indo-Pacific region: Tokyo warns against China's influence

Japan is in problem because borders have not opened. Japan's business community has now further sought relaxation of border controls.

Japan business community seeks relaxation of Japan's border controls

Western sanctions have crippled the Russian economy but failed to stop the war in Ukraine. Instead, sanctions have globalised inflation and shortages. Palki Sharma tells you why sanctions have historically failed.

Gravitas: Sanctions cripple Russia, but fail to end war

In the near future, the world may witness robots with skin and similar movements. No, we are not kidding, it may become possible as a “slightly sweaty” robotic finger, which is covered with living skin, has already been developed by the Japanese scientists. This may help in achieving the never-seen-before feat of human-like robots.&nbsp;The finger seems to have been able to heal itself. This impressive technical feat, which has lifelike anatomy, may reduce the difference between living flesh and machine. But people may also find it creepy. &nbsp;

The study has been published in the journal ‘Matter’. “We are surprised by how well the skin tissue conforms to the robot’s surface. But this work is just the first step towards creating robots covered with living skin,” said Shoji Takeuchi, professor, University of Tokyo, who also led the work. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/to-cut-boredom-nasas-perseverance-rover-finds-a-friend-on-mars-find-out-who-is-it-486770" hreflang="en">To cut boredom, NASA’s Perseverance rover finds a friend on Mars. Find out who is it</a>

“I think living skin is the ultimate solution to give robots the look and touch of living creatures since it is exactly the same material that covers animal bodies. Such advances had the potential to build a new relationship between humans and robots,” Takeuchi said. &nbsp;

The robotic finger was first submerged in a cylinder by the team. The container was filled with a solution made up from mixture of collagen and human dermal fibroblasts. These are the two main components, which make up the connective tissues of the skin. The surface of the finger got coated with this substance to ensure the next layer of cells called human epidermal keratinocytes can stick to it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Superfetation: Can a woman get pregnant again while already being pregnant?

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On bending, the natural-looking wrinkles form at the finger. When it gets wounded, the skin can self-heal like humans’ with the help of a collagen bandage. It feels like normal skin but it is weaker and has to be kept moist, as per the scientists. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“The finger looks slightly sweaty straight out of the culture medium. Since the finger is driven by an electric motor, it is also interesting to hear the clicking sounds of the motor in harmony with a finger that looks just like a real one,” said Takeuchi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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In the near future, the world may witness robots with skin and similar movements. No, we are not kidding, it may become possible as a “slightly sweaty” robotic finger, which is covered with living skin, has already been developed by the Japanese scientists.

In the near future, the world may witness robots with skin and similar movements. No, we are not kidding, it may become possible as a “slightly sweaty” robotic finger, which is covered with living skin, has already been developed by the Japanese scientists. This may help in achieving the never-seen-before feat of human-like robots. The finger seems to have been able to heal itself. This impressive technical feat, which has lifelike anatomy, may reduce the difference between living flesh and machine. But people may also find it creepy. The study has been published in the journal ‘Matter’. “We are surprised by how well the skin tissue conforms to the robot’s surface. But this work is just the first step towards creating robots covered with living skin,” said Shoji Takeuchi, professor, University of Tokyo, who also led the work. Also Read: To cut boredom, NASA’s Perseverance rover finds a friend on Mars. Find out who is it “I think living skin is the ultimate solution to give robots the look and touch of living creatures since it is exactly the same material that covers animal bodies. Such advances had the potential to build a new relationship between humans and robots,” Takeuchi said. The robotic finger was first submerged in a cylinder by the team. The container was filled with a solution made up from mixture of collagen and human dermal fibroblasts. These are the two main components, which make up the connective tissues of the skin. The surface of the finger got coated with this substance to ensure the next layer of cells called human epidermal keratinocytes can stick to it. Watch | Superfetation: Can a woman get pregnant again while already being pregnant? On bending, the natural-looking wrinkles form at the finger. When it gets wounded, the skin can self-heal like humans’ with the help of a collagen bandage. It feels like normal skin but it is weaker and has to be kept moist, as per the scientists. “The finger looks slightly sweaty straight out of the culture medium. Since the finger is driven by an electric motor, it is also interesting to hear the clicking sounds of the motor in harmony with a finger that looks just like a real one,” said Takeuchi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Human-like robots in making? 'Slightly sweaty' robotic finger with living skin developed by experts in Japan

In pics: Japan eases Covid restrictions for foreign tourists

South Korea's climate activists have taken to the streets against Japan's plans to discharge the Fukushima's radioactive waters into the sea. The backlash comes after last month the country's nuclear regulation authority gave an initial approval to Tokyo electric power to discharge water from the Fukushima plant starting next year

Japan's nuclear regulator gives initial approval to release nuclear wastewater

Japan has called out Russia for suspending the fishing pact between the two nations that allowed Japanese fishermen to fish near the disputed Kuril Islands. However, Moscow alleges that Tokyo has failed to make payments.

Russia suspends 1998 Fishing pact with Japan

Japan on Wednesday criticized Russia's announcement suspending an agreement that allows the Japanese to fish in waters near disputed southern Kuril islands, as relations between the countries deteriorate over the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

“In the current situation, we are forced to suspend the implementation of the 1998 Agreement until the Japanese side fulfils all its financial obligations,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

The fishing deal has been in place since 1998, allowing Japanese fishing boats to operate around the Russian-held Kurils, which Japan also claims and calls the Northern Territories, in exchange for Japan's payment based on catch quota and other conditions negotiated annually.&nbsp;

A territorial dispute over the islands, known in Russia as the Kurils and in Japan as the Northern Territories, dates back to the end of World War Two when Soviet troops seized them from Japan. The row has prevented the two countries from signing a formal peace treaty.

Its suspension, apparently in response to Japan's sanctions against Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine, raises concern about the safety of Japanese fishing boats in the area. Prior to the agreement, Russian authorities had seized and shot at Japanese boats.&nbsp;

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said it was "regrettable that Russia one-sidedly announced suspending the cooperation in this manner." He criticized Moscow for blaming Japan's failure to fund unrelated development projects on Sakhalin, the largest Russian island in the Pacific.&nbsp;

Matsuno said that Tokyo will pursue negotiations to ensure safe operations of Japanese boats under the pact.&nbsp; 
"We will do our utmost to protect the safety of the Japanese fishing operation," he said.&nbsp; 
The area is a rich fishing ground for pollack, Okhotsk mackerel and octopus.&nbsp;

The territorial dispute has prevented the two countries from signing a peace treaty formally ending World War II. Russia has already scrapped peace treaty negotiations with Japan in response to the sanctions.&nbsp;

Matsuno criticized Moscow for linking Japan's failure to fund development projects on Sakhalin, which is not part of the territory claimed by Tokyo, to the fishing deal, "as if the Sakhalin projects are conditional to the fishing safety agreement."&nbsp;

Japan has provided development funds for Sakhalin for years as part of its effort to improve ties with Russia. Matsuno acknowledged that Tokyo had not provided its latest payment for Sakhalin projects, but it wasn't immediately clear if it was tied to the sanctions.&nbsp;

Japan quickly joined the United States and Europe in imposing sanctions against Russia and providing support for Ukraine. It fears the crisis may further embolden China to increase its assertiveness in the region.&nbsp;

[With inputs from agencies] 
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Japan on Wednesday criticized Russia's announcement suspending an agreement that allows the Japanese to fish in waters near disputed southern Kuril islands, as relations between the countries deteriorate over the war in Ukraine.

Japan on Wednesday criticized Russia's announcement suspending an agreement that allows the Japanese to fish in waters near disputed southern Kuril islands, as relations between the countries deteriorate over the war in Ukraine. “In the current situation, we are forced to suspend the implementation of the 1998 Agreement until the Japanese side fulfils all its financial obligations,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement. The fishing deal has been in place since 1998, allowing Japanese fishing boats to operate around the Russian-held Kurils, which Japan also claims and calls the Northern Territories, in exchange for Japan's payment based on catch quota and other conditions negotiated annually. A territorial dispute over the islands, known in Russia as the Kurils and in Japan as the Northern Territories, dates back to the end of World War Two when Soviet troops seized them from Japan. The row has prevented the two countries from signing a formal peace treaty. Its suspension, apparently in response to Japan's sanctions against Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine, raises concern about the safety of Japanese fishing boats in the area. Prior to the agreement, Russian authorities had seized and shot at Japanese boats. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said it was "regrettable that Russia one-sidedly announced suspending the cooperation in this manner." He criticized Moscow for blaming Japan's failure to fund unrelated development projects on Sakhalin, the largest Russian island in the Pacific. Matsuno said that Tokyo will pursue negotiations to ensure safe operations of Japanese boats under the pact. "We will do our utmost to protect the safety of the Japanese fishing operation," he said. The area is a rich fishing ground for pollack, Okhotsk mackerel and octopus. The territorial dispute has prevented the two countries from signing a peace treaty formally ending World War II. Russia has already scrapped peace treaty negotiations with Japan in response to the sanctions. Matsuno criticized Moscow for linking Japan's failure to fund development projects on Sakhalin, which is not part of the territory claimed by Tokyo, to the fishing deal, "as if the Sakhalin projects are conditional to the fishing safety agreement." Japan has provided development funds for Sakhalin for years as part of its effort to improve ties with Russia. Matsuno acknowledged that Tokyo had not provided its latest payment for Sakhalin projects, but it wasn't immediately clear if it was tied to the sanctions. Japan quickly joined the United States and Europe in imposing sanctions against Russia and providing support for Ukraine. It fears the crisis may further embolden China to increase its assertiveness in the region. [With inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan calls out Russia over suspension of agreement that allows Japan to fish in southern Kuril islands

Japan's economy shrank slightly less than initially reported in the first quarter as private consumption remained resilient in the face of resurgent covid19 infections and companies rebuilt their stock. Now while the slow contraction is welcome news for the policy makers.

Japan: Q1 GDP falls; economy shrinks less than expected

After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has&nbsp;denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions.

Accusing the Chinese air force of unprofessional and risky behavior, Trudeau said that Canadian aircraft deployed in Japan had to avoid colliding with Bejing's jets.

Tensions between Canada and China have been high ever since the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou and Trudeau calling Xinjiang atrocities ''genocide''.

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According to the Canadian military, Chinese planes tried to divert their flight path and flew so close that the crew was "very clearly visible."

Slamming China for "not respecting decisions by the UN to enforce sanctions on North Korea," Trudeau said the Canadian aircraft were deployed in Japan as part of a multinational effort to enforce United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-utilise-veto-power-to-halt-us-bid-to-punish-north-korea-over-its-missile-launches-482495">Also read |&nbsp;Russia, China utilise veto power to halt US bid to punish North Korea over its missile launches</a>

It comes after China and Russia used their veto powers to block sanctions against North Korea in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Trudeau is currently travelling to the US to partake in the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles which is being convened to counter China's growing clout.

This is not the first time that China has used this tactic as recently Australia also accused China of having endangered one of its military aircraft over the South China Sea on May 26.

After the allegation, China warned Australia to "act prudently" or face "serious consequences."

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions.

After a recent encounter in international airspace over Asia, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denounced Beijing's "irresponsible and provocative" actions. Accusing the Chinese air force of unprofessional and risky behavior, Trudeau said that Canadian aircraft deployed in Japan had to avoid colliding with Bejing's jets. Tensions between Canada and China have been high ever since the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou and Trudeau calling Xinjiang atrocities ''genocide''. According to the Canadian military, Chinese planes tried to divert their flight path and flew so close that the crew was "very clearly visible." Slamming China for "not respecting decisions by the UN to enforce sanctions on North Korea," Trudeau said the Canadian aircraft were deployed in Japan as part of a multinational effort to enforce United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang. Also read | Russia, China utilise veto power to halt US bid to punish North Korea over its missile launches It comes after China and Russia used their veto powers to block sanctions against North Korea in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Trudeau is currently travelling to the US to partake in the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles which is being convened to counter China's growing clout. This is not the first time that China has used this tactic as recently Australia also accused China of having endangered one of its military aircraft over the South China Sea on May 26. After the allegation, China warned Australia to "act prudently" or face "serious consequences." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

After encounter in international airspace over Asia, Trudeau lambasts China's 'provocative' actions

In Japan, protesters have been out on the streets of Tokyo in solidarity with Hong Kong where China has banned at gatherings to mark the Tiananmen Square Anniversary.

Japan holds 33rd anniversary of Tiananmen vigil anniversary

South Korea and the United States staged their first combined military drill involving an American aircraft carrier since 2017. On the other side, North Korea showed signs of resuming missile tests. Japan PM lashed out at the tests conducted by North Korea.

Japan PM: Missile launches by North Korea cannot be tolerated

Famous ocean adventurer sets new record becoming the oldest person to sail solo across Pacific

Japan's services sector activity grew at the fastest pace in half a year in May as consumer sentiment recovered further following the easing of Covid curbs.

Japan's service sector activity grows at fastest pace in 6 months

For the sixth&nbsp;year in a row, Japan has witnessed a further fall in its number of births. In 2021 the nation saw a 3.5 per cent fall from the previous year (2020).&nbsp;Last year, the nation&nbsp;just had 811,604 births which is the lowest level on record, as per data by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.&nbsp;This is the lowest number of births in the country's 123-year history; the country began keeping records in 1899, and the year 2021 saw the lowest numbers ever.

Incidentally, if you were to look at news items for the nation's birth rates for the past few years, every year this record gets broken. Last year (2020) it was 840,832 births and this year a further 3.5 per cent fall to 811,604 is seen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-meet-labour-crunch-aid-an-aging-population-japan-develops-bex-a-goat-robot-484520">To meet labour crunch, aid an aging population Japan develops 'BEX' a goat-robot</a>

The country's total fertility rate, which is the number of children a Japanese woman will have in her lifetime also fell by 0.30 points. This rate stands at 1.30 per woman.

Japan's&nbsp;fertility rate&nbsp;has witnessed a steady decline since 1975 when it first fell below 2.0.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The world's fertility rate is falling. Here's why

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In 2005 it reached its nadir - the lowest of 1.26. However, the next few years saw a gradual rise, with it reaching 1.45 in 2015. Since then, for six years now it has slid lower and lower.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-says-japan-would-eventually-cease-to-exist-heres-what-he-meant-by-it-477573">Elon Musk says Japan would 'eventually cease to exist'. Here's what he meant by it</a>

In recent years, the Coronavirus pandemic and a larger number of people choosing to stay single, get married later or not have offspring have meant that this downward trend has continued. 
&nbsp; 
A few weeks back, Tesla CEO Elon Musk had also voiced concerns about Japan's falling birth rate, warning that Japan may soon "cease to exist" adding that it would be a great loss for the world.

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At risk of stating the obvious, unless something changes to cause the birth rate to exceed the death rate, Japan will eventually cease to exist. This would be a great loss for the world.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1523045544536723456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the sixth year in a row, Japan has witnessed a further fall in its number of births. In 2021 the nation saw a 3.5 per cent fall from the previous year (2020).

For the sixth year in a row, Japan has witnessed a further fall in its number of births. In 2021 the nation saw a 3.5 per cent fall from the previous year (2020). Last year, the nation just had 811,604 births which is the lowest level on record, as per data by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This is the lowest number of births in the country's 123-year history; the country began keeping records in 1899, and the year 2021 saw the lowest numbers ever. Incidentally, if you were to look at news items for the nation's birth rates for the past few years, every year this record gets broken. Last year (2020) it was 840,832 births and this year a further 3.5 per cent fall to 811,604 is seen. Also read | To meet labour crunch, aid an aging population Japan develops 'BEX' a goat-robot The country's total fertility rate, which is the number of children a Japanese woman will have in her lifetime also fell by 0.30 points. This rate stands at 1.30 per woman. Japan's fertility rate has witnessed a steady decline since 1975 when it first fell below 2.0. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The world's fertility rate is falling. Here's why In 2005 it reached its nadir - the lowest of 1.26. However, the next few years saw a gradual rise, with it reaching 1.45 in 2015. Since then, for six years now it has slid lower and lower. Also read | Elon Musk says Japan would 'eventually cease to exist'. Here's what he meant by it In recent years, the Coronavirus pandemic and a larger number of people choosing to stay single, get married later or not have offspring have meant that this downward trend has continued. A few weeks back, Tesla CEO Elon Musk had also voiced concerns about Japan's falling birth rate, warning that Japan may soon "cease to exist" adding that it would be a great loss for the world. At risk of stating the obvious, unless something changes to cause the birth rate to exceed the death rate, Japan will eventually cease to exist. This would be a great loss for the world. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 7, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan sees record-breaking fall in birth rate. Was Elon Musk right, will the country 'cease to exist'?

Equal pay is something that every woman wants but in Japan, it is an illusive goal. The Japanese society is advanced in so many ways but when it comes to gender equality it lags far behind.

Japan will make big companies disclose wage disparities

Researchers in the Japanese capital Tokyo say that they have found an alternative to cement and that too a more environmentally friendly one.

Japanese researchers turn food waste into cement

Japan is a country that values technology while remaining true to its traditions. Because of the country's lengthy aversion to accepting immigrants, aided by its low birth rate, Japan's&nbsp;population is rapidly ageing.&nbsp;Even as the country is taking steps to relax its tough immigration policies, it continues to be plagued by a shortage of labour.&nbsp;Now, Japan's Kawasaki Heavy Industries, a multinational company known for its industrial machines and heavy equipment have&nbsp;developed a robot that it believes will help with the country's labour shortage.&nbsp;And it is a quadruped robot, i.e., it is shaped like a four-footed animal, namely a goat.

The robot 'BEX' has been named after the wild goat species Ibex and it has horns.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-robot-learns-how-to-peel-banana-without-causing-any-damage-watch-469134">Japanese robot learns how to peel banana without causing any damage - Watch</a>

As per a Reuters report, BEX is still undergoing testing and the company behind the goat-robot hopes to commercialise it by 2023.

Yes, you read that right, the robot has large recurved horns and using its four legs it can easily walk over rough terrains. On smooth surfaces, it moves very quickly with the help of wheels it has tucked in its underbelly.

Watch |&nbsp;Singapore's robot workforce plugs labour gaps

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BEX can carry loads up to 100 kg or 220.4 lbs and is battery powered. It can be controlled by remote or move autonomously.

Kawasaki which is globally known for its motorcycles designed this robot for use in agricultural settings. The company started developing humanoid robots in the year 2017, however, those two-legged robots had a balancing problem. To counter that this four-legged robot has been developed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-from-checking-on-construction-to-making-coffee-singapores-robots-to-fill-in-labour-gaps-483393">In pics: From checking on construction to making coffee, Singapore’s robots to fill in labour gaps</a>

Speaking to Reuters, Noboru Takagi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries', Division Executive Officer said that "In an ageing society, it can help elderly people who need to move around carrying heavy cargo. For example, it can support the farming or forestry industries where people need to move heavy cargo."

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Japan is a country that values technology while remaining true to its traditions. Because of the country's lengthy aversion to accepting immigrants, aided by its low birth rate, Japan's population is rapidly ageing.

Japan is a country that values technology while remaining true to its traditions. Because of the country's lengthy aversion to accepting immigrants, aided by its low birth rate, Japan's population is rapidly ageing. Even as the country is taking steps to relax its tough immigration policies, it continues to be plagued by a shortage of labour. Now, Japan's Kawasaki Heavy Industries, a multinational company known for its industrial machines and heavy equipment have developed a robot that it believes will help with the country's labour shortage. And it is a quadruped robot, i.e., it is shaped like a four-footed animal, namely a goat. The robot 'BEX' has been named after the wild goat species Ibex and it has horns. Also read | Japanese robot learns how to peel banana without causing any damage - Watch As per a Reuters report, BEX is still undergoing testing and the company behind the goat-robot hopes to commercialise it by 2023. Yes, you read that right, the robot has large recurved horns and using its four legs it can easily walk over rough terrains. On smooth surfaces, it moves very quickly with the help of wheels it has tucked in its underbelly. Watch | Singapore's robot workforce plugs labour gaps BEX can carry loads up to 100 kg or 220.4 lbs and is battery powered. It can be controlled by remote or move autonomously. Kawasaki which is globally known for its motorcycles designed this robot for use in agricultural settings. The company started developing humanoid robots in the year 2017, however, those two-legged robots had a balancing problem. To counter that this four-legged robot has been developed. Also read | In pics: From checking on construction to making coffee, Singapore’s robots to fill in labour gaps Speaking to Reuters, Noboru Takagi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries', Division Executive Officer said that "In an ageing society, it can help elderly people who need to move around carrying heavy cargo. For example, it can support the farming or forestry industries where people need to move heavy cargo." Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

To meet labour crunch, aid an aging population Japan develops 'BEX' a goat-robot

Japan has plans to bring the pay disparity between men and women to light. In order to address gender disparities&nbsp;in the workplace, the country intends to make it necessary for large corporations to reveal wage disparities between men and women.&nbsp;This measure is part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's 'new capitalism' action plan.&nbsp;Companies will be compelled to reveal women's pay as a percentage of men's compensation on their website or elsewhere, according to a report by Euronews.next. They'd also have to break down the numbers by permanent and non-permanent personnel, as well as to justify any salary disparities.

It will apply to enterprises with more than 300 employees, both public and private. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the new law will affect roughly 18,000 enterprises.

The country's law already mandates that both men and women be paid equally for equal work.

Women's earnings in Japan, however, are only about 78 per cent of men's in comparison to the 88 per cent of other OECD countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-approve-abortion-pill-but-partners-consent-mandatory-483896">Japan to approve abortion pill – but partner’s consent mandatory</a>

According to researchers, the pay gap between men and women is due to a shortage of women in managerial positions and the low wages paid to women returning from maternity leave.

Pay discrepancies between men and women continue to be a major issue around the world.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo

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Even the most developed economies are having difficulty achieving fair compensation for all workers. According to Pew Research Center, women in the United States will earn only 84 per cent of their male counterparts in 2020.

That means they put in 42 days more than their male colleagues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-resume-tourism-after-two-years-of-strict-pandemic-closure-482569">Japan to resume tourism after two-years of strict pandemic closure</a>

According to Eurostat, women in Europe earned 13 per cent less than males in 2020, while it was 14.2 per cent in the Eurozone.

The EU approved a similar "pay transparency" requirement for companies with 250 or more employees in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan has plans to bring the pay disparity between men and women to light. In order to address gender disparities in the workplace, the country intends to make it necessary for large corporations to reveal wage disparities between men and women.

Japan has plans to bring the pay disparity between men and women to light. In order to address gender disparities in the workplace, the country intends to make it necessary for large corporations to reveal wage disparities between men and women. This measure is part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's 'new capitalism' action plan. Companies will be compelled to reveal women's pay as a percentage of men's compensation on their website or elsewhere, according to a report by Euronews.next. They'd also have to break down the numbers by permanent and non-permanent personnel, as well as to justify any salary disparities. It will apply to enterprises with more than 300 employees, both public and private. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the new law will affect roughly 18,000 enterprises. The country's law already mandates that both men and women be paid equally for equal work. Women's earnings in Japan, however, are only about 78 per cent of men's in comparison to the 88 per cent of other OECD countries. Also read | Japan to approve abortion pill – but partner’s consent mandatory According to researchers, the pay gap between men and women is due to a shortage of women in managerial positions and the low wages paid to women returning from maternity leave. Pay discrepancies between men and women continue to be a major issue around the world. Watch | Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo Even the most developed economies are having difficulty achieving fair compensation for all workers. According to Pew Research Center, women in the United States will earn only 84 per cent of their male counterparts in 2020. That means they put in 42 days more than their male colleagues. Also read | Japan to resume tourism after two-years of strict pandemic closure According to Eurostat, women in Europe earned 13 per cent less than males in 2020, while it was 14.2 per cent in the Eurozone. The EU approved a similar "pay transparency" requirement for companies with 250 or more employees in 2021. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'New capitalism': Japan sets its sight on gender pay disparity

In worrying signs for the Japanese economy, Retail sales rise more than expected in April. Whereas, April output fall much weaker than expected.

Worrying signs for Japanese economy: Retail sales rise more than expected in April

The new legislation would require women in Japan to seek their partner’s consent before being prescribed the abortion pill, which will reportedly be approved late this year. Under Japan’s 1948 Maternal Protection Law, consent is already required for surgical abortions, with very few exceptions.

 
This move comes three decades after abortion pills were approved in the United Kingdom.

 
“In principle, we believe that spousal consent is necessary, even if an abortion is induced by an oral medication,” Yasuhiro Hashimoto, a senior health ministry official, told a parliamentary committee earlier this month, according to Bloomberg.

 
Kumi Tsukahara, a founding member of Action for Safe Abortion Japan, said: “‘Spousal consent’ becomes an issue when there is a disagreement with the spouse or the spouse is forcing the woman to give birth against her will.

 
“For women, being forced into a pregnancy they do not want is violence and a form of torture.”

 
Cases have been seen where doctors in Japan refused to approve an abortion for women who had been sexually assaulted, forcing health ministry officials to write to the Japan Medical Association to clarify that consent is not required in rape cases.

 
The delay in approving the pill tramples women’s reproductive rights, and the possible $780 cost, reflects the priorities of the male-dominated parliament.

 
Oral contraceptives were only legalised in 1999 after a drawn-out nine-year legal debate, Japanese politicians took just six months to approve Viagra, the erectile dysfunction medication produced by Pfizer Inc.

 
"In principle, we believe that spousal consent is necessary, even if an abortion is induced by an oral medication," said Yasuhiro Hashimoto, the head of the ministry's child and family policy bureau.

 
But Mizuho Fukushima, a politician from the opposition Social Democratic Party, was critical of the ministry's position, asking the hearing, "Why should a woman need her partner's approval? It's her body."

 
"Women are not the property of men", she added. "Their rights, not those of the men&nbsp;should be protected."

 
Around 145,000 surgical abortions were carried out in Japan in 2020, which is one of only Il nations that still require the consent of the woman's partner for the procedure to go ahead. This requirement has been criticised by the World Health Organisation. 
&nbsp;

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The new legislation would require women in Japan to seek their partner’s consent before being prescribed the abortion pill, which will reportedly be approved late this year.

The new legislation would require women in Japan to seek their partner’s consent before being prescribed the abortion pill, which will reportedly be approved late this year. Under Japan’s 1948 Maternal Protection Law, consent is already required for surgical abortions, with very few exceptions. This move comes three decades after abortion pills were approved in the United Kingdom. “In principle, we believe that spousal consent is necessary, even if an abortion is induced by an oral medication,” Yasuhiro Hashimoto, a senior health ministry official, told a parliamentary committee earlier this month, according to Bloomberg. Kumi Tsukahara, a founding member of Action for Safe Abortion Japan, said: “‘Spousal consent’ becomes an issue when there is a disagreement with the spouse or the spouse is forcing the woman to give birth against her will. “For women, being forced into a pregnancy they do not want is violence and a form of torture.” Cases have been seen where doctors in Japan refused to approve an abortion for women who had been sexually assaulted, forcing health ministry officials to write to the Japan Medical Association to clarify that consent is not required in rape cases. The delay in approving the pill tramples women’s reproductive rights, and the possible $780 cost, reflects the priorities of the male-dominated parliament. Oral contraceptives were only legalised in 1999 after a drawn-out nine-year legal debate, Japanese politicians took just six months to approve Viagra, the erectile dysfunction medication produced by Pfizer Inc. "In principle, we believe that spousal consent is necessary, even if an abortion is induced by an oral medication," said Yasuhiro Hashimoto, the head of the ministry's child and family policy bureau. But Mizuho Fukushima, a politician from the opposition Social Democratic Party, was critical of the ministry's position, asking the hearing, "Why should a woman need her partner's approval? It's her body." "Women are not the property of men", she added. "Their rights, not those of the men should be protected." Around 145,000 surgical abortions were carried out in Japan in 2020, which is one of only Il nations that still require the consent of the woman's partner for the procedure to go ahead. This requirement has been criticised by the World Health Organisation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan to approve abortion pill – but partner’s consent mandatory

SoftBank Group’s top executives Masayoshi Son saw steep cuts in their paychecks as the Japanese conglomerate marked a historic loss for its vision fund unit.

Japan: SoftBank's top executives pay slashed after historic vision fund loss

From Spain to South Korea: The push for paid menstrual leave

North Korea test-fired 3 ballistic missiles shortly after Joe Biden left Japan. The tests come after POTUS' recent remarks that he didn't care what Pyongyang did. Is Kim Jong-un trying to send a message to him? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: North Korea test-fire 3 missiles as Biden leaves Japan

50 kilometers from the bustling city of Tokyo, is a window into Japan's history. It is called the Little Edo. The town stands as a perfect emblem of the progressive country that's deeply rooted in tradition. Palki Sharma takes you on a tour.

Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo

In Japan - overtime is taking lives of workers. Some estimates claim up to 10,000 workers die due to overwork in Japan every year. Palki Sharma tells you why Japan's work culture is so toxic.

Gravitas: Ground Report: Overtime is killing workers in Japan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up.

A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design on the cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-former-japanese-pm-shinzo-abe-speaks-to-wion-on-china-taiwan-relations-481891">Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations</a>

This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly died&nbsp;out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition.

Gravitas: Exclusive: Shinzo Abe backs strong India-Japan ties

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They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred.

PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014.

At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing.

(With inputs from ANI) 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifts a wooden carved box with the traditional Rogan painting on it to the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with him at the sidelines of the QUAD Summit in Tokyo, Japan. The Rogan painting is usually done on a dark coloured cloth to make the intense colours stand out. The thick and shiny paint is prepared by boiling castor oil (extracted from hand-pounded castor seeds) for a few days and then adding vegetable pigment and a binding agent to it. The pastes are stored in earthen pots with water to prevent them from drying up. A kalam or an iron rod is used to paint half the design on the cloth with the support of the fingers of the left hand, and then it is impressed on the other half of the cloth by pressing the two sides of the cloth together. Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations This traditional Gujarati art form is practised by Hindu and Muslim Khatri communities of Gujarat. It has been practised for over a hundred years, but the art nearly died out in the 20th century, and now only a single-family in Nirona, Kachchh is carrying forward the tradition. Gravitas: Exclusive: Shinzo Abe backs strong India-Japan ties They are popular as inexpensive substitutes for embroidered textiles. Usually, skirts, dresses, bedsheets, cushion covers, curtains and table cloths are painted with this technique. Either geometrical motifs or motifs inspired by nature like the tree-of-life are generally preferred. PM Narendra Modi gifted two Rogan paintings including a tree-of-life to the then United States President Barak Obama during his visit to the White House, official workplace and the residence of the United States President, in 2014. At the meeting, the two leaders appreciated the growing economic ties between India and Japan and agreed to further enhance ties by focusing on bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing. (With inputs from ANI) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi gifts carved wooden box with rogan painting to Japan's PM Fumio Kishida

Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10.

However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups.

This is because these tour groups are expected to bear the responsibility of ensuring that all the travellers with it respect Japan's near-universal mask mandate and other steps that have helped keep the toll from Covid-19 remarkably low.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-man-spends-2-million-yen-to-become-a-dog-watch-how-it-turns-out-482118">Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out</a>

Beginning June 10, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that people on scheduled tours with guides will be allowed to enter Japan.

The nation's Prime Minister has also stated his desire to relax border control rules, but progress is expected to be slow.

Small experimental package trips from Australia, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States are being hosted in Japan this week.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo

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The trial includes only 50 people who were given special visas rather than tourist visas. The experiment&nbsp;is scheduled to close on May 31.

Revisiting the border controls, the country will soon resume accepting package tours from counties like Britain, Canada, France, Malaysia and the United States.

Japan will also increase the number of airports that accept international flights to seven, adding Naha in southern Okinawa and New Chitose near Sapporo in northern Hokkaido.

For the majority of the pandemic, Japan has prevented all visitors from entering, allowing only nationals and foreign residents to do so, though even these have been turned away on occasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-japan-prefers-higher-inflation-481910">Why Japan prefers higher inflation</a>

Following complaints that its rigorous border controls were xenophobic, Japan began loosening its restrictions earlier this year.

Currently, it&nbsp;permits up to 10,000 individuals per day to enter the country, including Japanese citizens, foreign students, and certain business travellers.

All visitors must test negative before travelling to Japan, and many must be tested again after they arrive, however, triple-vaccinated visitors from select countries are exempt from the additional test and the three-day quarantine required of others.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10. However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups.

Ending its two-year pandemic closure, Japan on Thursday announced that it will reopen to tourists from 98 countries starting June 10. However, the country added that travellers will only be allowed in with tour groups. This is because these tour groups are expected to bear the responsibility of ensuring that all the travellers with it respect Japan's near-universal mask mandate and other steps that have helped keep the toll from Covid-19 remarkably low. Watch | Japanese man spends over $15,000 to become a dog. Watch how it turns out Beginning June 10, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that people on scheduled tours with guides will be allowed to enter Japan. The nation's Prime Minister has also stated his desire to relax border control rules, but progress is expected to be slow. Small experimental package trips from Australia, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States are being hosted in Japan this week. Watch | Gravitas: A trip to Japan's Little Edo The trial includes only 50 people who were given special visas rather than tourist visas. The experiment is scheduled to close on May 31. Revisiting the border controls, the country will soon resume accepting package tours from counties like Britain, Canada, France, Malaysia and the United States. Japan will also increase the number of airports that accept international flights to seven, adding Naha in southern Okinawa and New Chitose near Sapporo in northern Hokkaido. For the majority of the pandemic, Japan has prevented all visitors from entering, allowing only nationals and foreign residents to do so, though even these have been turned away on occasion. Also read | Why Japan prefers higher inflation Following complaints that its rigorous border controls were xenophobic, Japan began loosening its restrictions earlier this year. Currently, it permits up to 10,000 individuals per day to enter the country, including Japanese citizens, foreign students, and certain business travellers. All visitors must test negative before travelling to Japan, and many must be tested again after they arrive, however, triple-vaccinated visitors from select countries are exempt from the additional test and the three-day quarantine required of others. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan to resume tourism after two-years of strict pandemic closure

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