Japan's Environment Minister To Take Paternity Leave

Shinjiro Koizumi, a Japanese cabinet member, made history by taking paternity leave after the birth of his first child, despite low male participation in such leave. Although Japanese law allows up to a year of parental leave, only 6% of men take it. Koizumi faced criticism and struggled to balance his duties as Environment Minister. He emphasized the need for both systemic and cultural changes to support parental leave, while ensuring he would not miss key events during his absence.

Who is the first cabinet member in Japan to take paternity leave?

What percentage of men in Japan took paternity leave according to the text?

What did Shinjiro Koizumi struggle with regarding his paternity leave?

What does Koizumi believe needs to change in Japan regarding paternity leave?

What assurance did Koizumi give about his responsibilities during his leave?