Japan's Crown Prince Akishino has 'mixed feelings' on revised male-only imperial succession law
TOKYO — Japanese Crown Prince Akishino, the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito , on Thursday said he has “mixed feelings” about the government's revision to the Imperial House Law that reinforces a rule dictating only men can become emperor. “I believe there is no difference between men and women” in serving the roles of the imperial family to respond to social needs, Akishino said at a news…
Japanese Crown Prince Akishino, the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito, expressed "mixed feelings" on Thursday regarding the government's revision to the Imperial House Law. This law reinforces a rule that only men can ascend to the throne. Speaking at a news conference before his upcoming trip to Paraguay to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Japanese emigration to the South American country, Akishino stated, "I believe there is no difference between men and women" in fulfilling the roles of the imperial family in response to social needs.
The news of Akishino's comments arrives weeks after the conservative government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made a historic revision to the Imperial House Law. This law, which critics have labeled as anachronistic and sexist, specifically mandates that only men from the paternal line can become emperor. The revision has drawn significant criticism and concern, with many arguing that the male-only succession imposes an inhumane system on the royal family, particularly considering the already dwindling numbers within the imperial household.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
