This week, Document Women records new wins, new firsts and ongoing conversations for women across the world. 

Japan

Tomoko Yoshino has been appointed the first female president of Japan’s powerful labour union federation. Ms Yoshino is the first woman to hold this position since its creation in 1989.  Starting her career as a medium-size sewing machine maker after graduating from high school, Ms Yoshino intends to focus on correcting the gender gap in wages, as well as improving working conditions for women. 

Read more here.

Sierra Leone

Freetown has appointed Eugenia Kargbo as its first chief heat officer, joining the ranks of Greece and Miami to battle the ongoing effects of climate change. The 34-year-old mother was appointed this week to combat rising temperatures and come up with everyday ways to cool the burning roads of her city.

Read more here.

Benin Republic

Until now, abortions in the Republic of Benin were allowed only if the pregnancy was dangerous to the mother. 

Read more here. 

Democratic Republic of Congo

The United Nations continues to push the conversation around women’s rights in Congo and reviewed the barriers that continue to hinder the full participation of women in the peace processes in the country. 

Read more here.  

Global

This month, the World Health Organisation launched a new chatbot focusing on women’s health. The first set of messages to be received by users relates to breast cancer, to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Users will be able to find information on how to reduce the risk of breast cancer, symptoms and treatment options. 

Read more here.