Sleeps for 2 hours: Japanese Prime Minister accused of encouraging overwork

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has admitted to sleeping only two hours a day, prompting a wave of criticism and accusations that she encourages recycling in a country where work-life balance remains in question, as reported by AFP.

"I sleep for about two hours, four at most. I have the impression that it harms my skin," the head of government told the members of the parliamentary committee, at which she was asked about the length of the working day, which is extremely long in Japan.

The government of Sanae Takaichi is negotiating a possible extension of overtime, which it presents as a strategy to promote economic growth.

"If we can create an environment in which people can find a balance between raising children and family responsibilities and work and leisure at the same time, it will be ideal," said Sanae Takaichi, the first female prime minister of Japan.

The politician defended these negotiations, arguing that workers and employers have different needs, some have to work two jobs to make ends meet, and enterprises set strict limits on overtime. The Prime Minister stressed that any changes will guarantee the protection of workers' health.