Dialogue at UTokyo GlobE #17: Talk Event with H.E. Ms. Julia Longbottom CMG, British Ambassador to Japan

On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, GlobE hosted the 17th installment of its “Dialogue at UTokyo GlobE” series, featuring a special talk by H.E. Ms. Julia Longbottom CMG, British Ambassador to Japan. She was joined by UTokyo President Teruo Fujii and Executive Vice President Kaori Hayashi, with Vice President Yujin Yaguchi serving as moderator. The result was an engaging and thought-provoking event.

The first half of the event featured a talk titled “In Conversation with Julia Longbottom, British Ambassador to Japan.” Drawing on examples from her experience, she discussed the barriers to women’s advancement in society and the importance of gender equality. Her powerful message highlighted the necessity of transforming social mindsets and public systems to ensure that all people can access equal opportunities and achieve their potential. These points resonated deeply with the audience.

In the second half, President Fujii and EVP Hayashi asked Ambassador Longbottom about the progress of gender equality in Japan and the balance between childcare and work. She shared her observations about changes in Japan, noting that women now work in a much wider range of fields than they did in the 1990s. She also talked about her own experiences raising children.

Students actively participated in the dialogue and raised insightful questions, such as what is needed for more women to aspire to leadership positions and whether her gender influenced her work as an ambassador. Through this exchange, the event reaffirmed the importance of establishing an organizational environment that supports women in their career development, as well as authentically engaging with all individuals without being constrained by gender. It served as a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding and awareness of gender equality.


About Dialogue at UTokyo GlobE:
Organized by UTokyo’s Center for Global Education (GlobE), this series is part of UTokyo’s global education initiatives, designed to foster international understanding and broaden global perspectives among students. It features dialogues between distinguished global leaders and the University’s President and executive leadership.