A mayor in Japan announced her maternity leave – and got the whole country talking

• Japanese mayor's maternity leave announcement challenges workplace stigma around parenthood in high-pressure roles, highlighting broader cultural attitudes toward medical professionals and work-life balance
• Despite criticism, public figures normalising parental leave may influence attitudes in healthcare settings where doctors face similar pressures to prioritise work over family commitments

In the face of criticism, Shoko Kawata, 35, says she loves her job and is proud to be taking time off to have a baby.

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