The Tokyo court ruled that Japan's ban on same-sex marriage does not violate the country’s constitution. This decision counters a pattern of rulings from other courts in Japan that had previously encouraged hopes for marriage equality.
The court affirmed that the current constitution does not grant the right for same-sex couples to marry. It emphasized traditional definitions embedded in the law, maintaining the status quo on marriage rights.
This ruling is a setback for activists and couples advocating for marriage equality across Japan. Despite several regional courts showing sympathy toward same-sex marriage claims, the Tokyo decision signals significant legal resistance.
"The constitution does not recognize same-sex marriage," the court stated, reinforcing government policies against union recognition for same-sex couples.
Japan remains one of the developed countries where same-sex marriage is not legally recognized nationwide. Public opinion is slowly shifting, but legal changes have lagged behind.
This decision highlights the ongoing legal and social challenges for LGBTQ+ rights in Japan, revealing a complex struggle between progressive court rulings and established constitutional interpretations.