A Giant Leap for Equality: Japan’s Groundbreaking Verdict on Same-Sex Marriage
The Unconstitutional Ban on Same-Sex Marriage
In a historic turn of events, Japan’s Tokyo High Court declared the country’s prohibition on same-sex marriage as unconstitutional, a decision echoing a prior judgment by the Sapporo High Court. This landmark ruling – decrying the prohibition as an unfounded legal discrimination dictated by sexual orientation – suggests a significant stride in the fight for marriage equality in Japan. The nation finds itself as the lone G7 domain yet to legally recognize same-sex unions. The court’s judgement emphasis on the breach of the fundamental right to equality, respect for individual’s dignity, and gender equality signifies a promising shift in Japan’s legal landscape.
A Critical Step Towards Marriage Equality in Japan
The ruling garnered applause from supporters and allies standing outside the courthouse, exhibiting banners advocating for marriage equality and legal revision. According to Boram Jang, an East Asia researcher with Amnesty International, this verdict signals a critical stride towards marriage equality in Japan. It also acts as a stark reminder of the prolonged, fragmented legal processes couples are subjected to for exercising rights that should ideally be safeguarded. He urged the Japanese government to institutionalize same-sex marriage nationwide, rather than resort to inadequate and inconsistent measures at the local government level.
Emerging Public Support for LGBTQ+ Rights
Contemporary public sentiment in Japan leans progressively towards endorsing same-sex marriage. As per a 2023 survey by JNN, approximately 63% of Japanese citizens endorse marriage equality (with an overwhelming 80% support amongst younger generations). Last year, the national legislature of Japan, the Japanese Diet, enacted a watershed law aimed at raising awareness and curbing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Yet, the progress has been halted owing to traditionalist beliefs harboured by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.
International Pressure from G7
In recent times, international scrutiny over Japan’s lack of legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals has intensified. Notably, during Japan’s hostship of this year’s G7 summit, international voices urged Japan to align its policies with global human rights standards. While some local realms have offered limited rights to same-sex couples, these fail to provide full legal status or essential rights such as inheritance, spousal visas, or parental recognition. In light of the ongoing international pressures, there’s hope that Japan will align itself with peers in the G7 community and lead the change for accelerated LGBTQ+ rights in Asia.
Conclusion
As Boram Jang rightly said, “All couples, no matter their gender or sexual orientation, deserve the same legal rights, protections, and the dignity that comes with recognition under the law”. This historic ruling potentially paves the way for broader reforms, which can strengthen Japan’s international standing, and bring momentous change in the lives of countless individuals.
Originally Post From https://www.newsweek.com/japan-lgbtq-marriage-ban-unconstitutional-high-court-1977134
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