Japan eases succession law but bars female emperors

Japan's parliament has enacted a new law that modifies the rules of imperial succession, primarily by allowing distant male relatives to be adopted into the imperial family. This measure aims to ensure a male heir for the Chrysanthemum Throne, as the current line of succession hinges on the 19-year-old Prince Hisahito, Emperor Naruhito's nephew, who currently has no sons.

Despite the passage of the law, which was approved by a large majority in the upper house, it explicitly maintains the long-standing prohibition against women ascending to the throne. This means Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito's only child, and his two older nieces are ineligible to become empresses, a decision that has sparked significant debate and opposition.

The legislation comes after considerable internal discussion within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, notably influenced by figures like Sanae Takaichi, who opposes female succession. The law permits unmarried male relatives over 15 to return to the imperial family through adoption. It also allows women to retain their noble status after marrying commoners, a privilege previously exclusive to men.

Public opinion, however, appears to lean towards allowing female succession. A poll by Asahi published in May indicated that 72% of Japanese people support changing the rules to enable women to become empresses. Critics, including former imperial family member Asahiro Kuni and members of the ruling party like Seiichiro Murakami, have voiced concerns. Murakami called the exclusion of Princess Aiko "absolutely outrageous," while Kuni expressed skepticism about distant male relatives adapting to imperial life, suggesting they might refuse such an offer.

The current Imperial House Law, in effect since 1947, dictates succession solely through the male line, tracing back to the sun goddess Amaterasu. With only five males currently in the imperial family of 16 members, the future of the monarchy remains a pressing concern, particularly if Prince Hisahito does not produce a male heir.