Japan Reforms Imperial Law but Keeps Male-Only Succession for Chrysanthemum Throne

Japan's parliament has approved a historic revision of the Imperial House Law, the first major change since 1947, but the reform maintains the exclusive male-only succession to the Chrysanthemum Throne, rejecting widespread public support for allowing a reigning empress.

The Reform

Two key changes were introduced. First, the imperial family may now adopt male descendants (aged 15 or older and unmarried) from 11 former branches that lost their status after World War II. These adoptees cannot become emperor themselves, but their future sons would be eligible for succession. Second, princesses who marry commoners will retain their imperial status and continue official duties, whereas previously they were expelled from the family. However, their husbands and children will not gain imperial rank, and the reform does not grant succession rights to women or their descendants.

The law passed the upper house with 184 votes in favour and 57 against, following approval by the lower house a week earlier. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) championed the revision. Source: lavanguardia

Public Opinion and Criticism

Multiple polls show strong public backing for a reigning empress: a Kyodo News survey in May recorded 80% support Source: infobae, and a Mainichi Shimbun poll in March found 61% in favour. Yet the reform leaves Princess Aiko (24), the only child of Emperor Naruhito, barred from the throne. Professor Hideya Kawanishi of Nagoya University told EFE: "This recent amendment will not lead to a stable succession to the throne." Source: infobae Opposition parties criticised the lack of debate and the refusal to consider female succession. The LDP is accused of prioritising conservative base votes over public sentiment. Source: euronewses