TOKYO, March 13 (Alliance News): A Japanese couple has sued Miyazaki Sangyo-keiei University for allegedly forcing the wife out of her academic position after their marriage, highlighting persistent gender inequality in Japan’s workplace culture.
The husband, a law professor, informed the university’s dean of their marriage in July, after which the administration reportedly told him that his wife’s contract would not be renewed. Local reports suggest the university cited an unwritten rule that spouses should not work together at the institution due to its small size.
Despite filing for divorce in an attempt to retain their jobs, the woman, an assistant professor, was reassigned to a clerical position, while her husband was demoted to associate professor. The couple has now taken legal action, demanding reinstatement to their previous roles.
Japan ranks 118th out of 146 countries in the 2024 Global Gender Gap report, with women still underrepresented in leadership roles. The case has sparked debate over workplace gender discrimination in Japan, particularly in academic institutions.
