Editorial: Individual dignity on the ballot in Japan ruling party leadership race

The introduction of an optional separate surname system in Japan, which would allow Japanese couples to choose whether to adopt the same surname or retain their respective pre-marriage surnames, has become a key issue in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) presidential election.

The debate intensified after former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi made it one of his pledges when he announced his candidacy, stating that it would be implemented within a year.

Candidates are divided on the issue. Some including digital minister Taro Kono support the introduction of the system, while economic security minister Sanae Takaichi and others oppose it. Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa is one of the few who take the stance that broad public understanding is necessary.

The Justice Ministry’s Legislative Council advised that Japan introduce optional separate surnames 28 years ago. Although the ministry then prepared a bill, it has never been deliberated in the Diet. This is because of a lack of progress in discussions within the LDP due to strong opposition from conservatives who argue that the sense of family unity would be undermined.

Junior ruling coalition partner Komeito and many opposition parties support the system. In the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan’s own leadership contest, all four candidates advocated for its introduction.

It is a fact that opportunities to use one’s maiden name in social settings have increased. It is now possible to list both surnames on public documents such as driver’s licenses and passports. However, the legal surname on one’s family registry is still required for official procedures. The burden of rewriting documents and juggling different surnames remains heavy. Simply expanding the use of alternative names does not resolve the issue.

Particularly in international business, problems have arisen. The use of alternative names is rarely recognized. Japan is said to be the only country that mandates the use of a single surname for married couples, which is difficult for foreigners to understand.

It is primarily women who are put at a disadvantage, as 95% of married couples choose the husband’s surname. The United Nations has repeatedly called on Japan to rectify this discriminatory system.

What’s most concerning is that some people feel a sense of loss, as if they have been deprived of their identity, when forced to change their surname upon marriage. A name is not only a way for individuals to be identified in society, but also a symbol of their personality. This is an issue that concerns individual dignity.

The optional separate surname system would fulfill the wishes of those who want to live with the surname they are familiar with, without infringing on the rights of those who prefer a shared surname.

We must create a society where everyone is respected as an individual. The real issue in this LDP presidential election debate is politicians’ awareness of human rights.