On Wednesday, the Japanese parliament gave its preliminary approval to a framework intended to alleviate the impending crisis in imperial succession. Under current rules, only male descendants born to male lineage can ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne.
As a result, the future of the imperial family rests on 19-year-old Prince Hisahito. He is Emperor Naruhito’s nephew and stands out as the only young male member of the family.
Most other family members are women. Current regulations do not allow women to inherit the throne. The youngest adult male in the family is 60-year-old Crown Prince Akishino, who is Naruhito’s brother and Hisahito’s father.
Lawmakers seeking to broaden the line of succession have submitted their proposal to amend the Imperial Household Law to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Eisuke Mori, the lower house speaker, said the outcome was the best possible compromise despite differing opinions.
For the plan to become law, the government must draft the amendment, after which the bill will return to parliament. Mori expressed hope that the reform would be passed before the current parliamentary session ends on July 17.
According to the proposal, adopted male relatives joining the family later would not be considered direct heirs. However, their sons could enter the line of succession.
The total number of imperial family members is reported as 16, including five men: the 66-year-old emperor, his brother, Prince Hisahito, retired Emperor Akihito, and Akihito’s 90-year-old brother.
Emperor Naruhito’s daughter, Princess Aiko, is also part of the family. However, under the current male-preference rule, she would have to leave the family upon marriage.
The lawmakers’ proposal does not address the possibility of a female emperor. Although this idea enjoys broad public support, the reform does not include any steps in that direction.
