Key facts
- Japan's parliament approved a revised Imperial House Law.
- The law allows for the adoption of distant male relatives over 15.
- Women can retain royal status after marrying commoners.
- The legislation upholds male-only succession to the Chrysanthemum Throne.
- Princess Aiko remains ineligible to succeed the throne.
Japan's parliament has approved a bill to revise the Imperial House Law, addressing concerns over the shrinking size of the imperial family while maintaining male-only succession. The legislation permits the adoption of distant male relatives over the age of 15 and allows princesses to retain their royal status after marrying outside the family. Despite nationwide opinion polls showing significant support for a female emperor, the law upholds the traditional male-only line to the Chrysanthemum Throne. This marks the first amendment to the law since 1949, aiming to ensure the continuity of the world's oldest hereditary monarchy. The current line of succession places Emperor Naruhito's younger brother, Fumihito, first, followed by his son, Prince Hisahito. Conservative political figures have voiced opposition to female succession, with some experts suggesting the decision prioritizes conservative political bases over public opinion.