After two years of heated debate, the lower house of the Japanese parliament has passed an amendment to the 126-year-old civil code, allowing for shared custody of children. This groundbreaking change marks a significant shift in Japan’s family law system, which previously favored sole custody arrangements.

The new legislation, which was approved by a narrow margin, will now allow divorced parents to share responsibility for their children, ensuring that both parents have equal rights and obligations when it comes to childcare. This move is seen as a major step towards promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of children in Japan.

Supporters of the amendment argue that shared custody will help reduce the financial burden on single parents and promote a more balanced upbringing for children. However, critics have raised concerns about the potential challenges and conflicts that may arise from shared custody arrangements.

Despite the controversy surrounding the issue, the passage of this amendment is a significant victory for advocates of family law reform in Japan. It is hoped that this change will pave the way for further progress in promoting gender equality and improving the welfare of children in the country.