Crown Prince Akishino Expresses Mixed Feelings on Male-Only Succession Law

Japanese Crown Prince Akishino, brother of Emperor Naruhito, expressed mixed feelings about the recent government revision to the Imperial House Law that mandates only men can ascend to the throne. His comments were made during a news conference in Tokyo ahead of his upcoming trip to Paraguay.

The revision, enacted by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's conservative government, has faced criticism for being outdated and sexist. It has raised concerns about the future of the imperial family, which is already shrinking. Akishino acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating that societal progress is necessary and that diverse perspectives should be considered.

Under the new law, while princesses can retain their royal status after marrying commoners, their husbands and children will not be recognized as royals. The revision also permits the adoption of unmarried male descendants from distant imperial relatives to ensure a male heir, further complicating the succession landscape. This change has sparked protests against perceived discrimination and the exclusion of women from the line of succession.