Meet Japan’s “Iron Lady”: How will Sanae Takaichi Forge a New Era of International Relations?

Photo courtesy: The Guardian

Clad in her signature blazer and string of pearls, the woman who confidently approaches the pedestal is none other than Sanae Takaichi, the newly inaugurated prime minister of Japan. This year, citizens of Japan welcomed Takaichi, who is otherwise named as the “Iron Lady” by media outlets. Her victory against opponents with flashier backgrounds has continued to testify to her ambition. So who is this new prime minister, and how is she shaping international affairs? 

Born in 1961, south of Kyoto, Takaichi is a weathered veteran of the Japanese political scene. After graduating from Kobe University, she entered the realm of politics and has stayed ever since. In October 2025, Takaichi was voted prime minister and made history (Al Jazeera). 

Reuters reports that Takaichi’s main role model was Margaret Thatcher, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Their similarities went beyond being the first female prime ministers of their respective countries and coming from humble backgrounds. Takaichi aptly shares Thatcher’s sobriquet “Iron Lady” for their shared leadership styles. In particular, Takaichi’s extreme work ethic caused controversy. According to the New York Times, when she held a meeting at 3 a.m., Yoshihiko Noda of the opposing party was not hesitant in calling the prime minister “crazy.” Many others accused her of promoting unhealthy work standards. Meanwhile, supporters of Takaichi commended her dedication. 

In terms of her political leanings, Takaichi is known for her strong conservative and nationalistic beliefs as part of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan. The LDP is known for its former representative Shinzo Abe. Through his protégé, his revisionist ideology continues to manifest. Takaichi intends to remedy Japan’s economic stagnation by building on Abe’s stimulus policies, commonly referred to as “Abenomics”. Additionally, she is critical of China, which has already caused friction. Earlier, she suggested that a “quasi-security alliance” can be formed between Japan and Taiwan, conflicting with the intentions of China (Reuters). In one rather aggressive article from China in the newspaper People’s Daily, Takaichi was accused of “recklessly shooting her mouth off” and that “no one should harbor any illusion that they can cross the line on the Taiwan issue without paying a price” (CNN). 

At times, her nationalist sentiment has triggered disapproval from many on the global stage. Like Abe, Takaichi believes in strengthening Japan’s Self Defense Force—an action that grazes against Article 9 of Japan’s Constitution, formed shortly after World War II, stating that “land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained.” If Japan were to establish an official alliance with Taiwan, this would mean Japan could deploy military forces if China were to advance on Taiwan under the claim of self-defense. Not only this, but Takaichi has also provoked reproach through her frequent visits to a Tokyo shrine that honors both fallen soldiers and convicted war criminals (The Guardian). Some critically interpreted the visits as Takaichi’s support for remnants of Japan’s past militarism. 

Overall, as risky as Takaichi’s grand plans seem from a global standpoint, there is no doubt that her plans may enhance the well-being of her citizens. For instance, her suggested policy for strategic investment initiatives in crucial technological advancements, such as AI and semiconductors, is expected to stimulate economic growth and expansion.  Additionally, she aims to enhance economic growth by abolishing provisional taxes on diesel and gasoline, subsidizing small and medium-sized enterprises, introducing a refundable tax credit system, and more (Prime Minister’s Office of Japan).

Thus, it is apparent that Sanae Takaichi’s prime ministership will be as divided as Abe Shinzo’s. While her plans receive substantial criticism, her policies will undoubtedly bring immense benefits for Japan’s economy, and she is “absolutely determined to never give up” (NPR). Takaichi will significantly shift international relations dynamics for better or for worse. From the very moment of her inauguration, she has already begun to make history, and we can anticipate more in the years that follow.