Japan Protests UN’s Call to Review Male-Only Imperial Succession Law
In Tokyo, Japan has expressed strong objections to a United Nations human rights committee’s suggestion to reconsider a domestic law that restricts imperial succession to male heirs from the emperor’s paternal line. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized that the imperial succession system is integral to Japan’s national identity. He stated that the government had previously informed the UN panel, which focuses on eliminating discrimination against women, that it would be “inappropriate” for them to address this issue. Despite the panel’s acknowledgment that the 1947 Imperial House Law is “not within the purview” of its authority, it deemed the succession rule “contrary to the object and purpose” of the UN convention aimed at eliminating discrimination against women. Hayashi expressed regret over the inclusion of this reference in the final report and reiterated Japan’s demand for its removal.
Doubts Revealed
UN -: The UN, or United Nations, is an international organization that works to maintain peace and security around the world. It also promotes human rights and helps countries work together on common problems.
Imperial Succession -: Imperial succession refers to the process of passing down the position of emperor or empress in a royal family. In Japan, this means only male members of the royal family can become emperor.
Chief Cabinet Secretary -: The Chief Cabinet Secretary is a high-ranking official in the Japanese government. This person helps the Prime Minister and communicates important government decisions to the public.
1947 Imperial House Law -: The 1947 Imperial House Law is a set of rules in Japan that governs the royal family, including who can become the emperor. It currently allows only male members to inherit the throne.
Anti-discrimination goals -: Anti-discrimination goals are efforts to ensure that everyone is treated equally, regardless of their gender, race, or other characteristics. The UN works to promote these goals worldwide.