Japanese City Recognizes Same-Sex Couple
A Japanese city has taken a significant step by registering a same-sex couple as partners under the same address. This move, considered groundbreaking by the couple, is particularly noteworthy in a country like Japan that does not have marriage equality.
Address Registration in Japan
In Japan, it is mandatory for everyone to register their address with local authorities. Keita Matsuura, 38, and his partner Yutaro Fujiyama used to be listed separately despite living together. When they relocated to Omura in Nagasaki, they expressed their desire to be registered together, similar to a married couple.
Recognition as Partners
Initially, the city proposed registering Fujiyama as Matsuura’s relative. However, after discussions, they agreed to register him as Matsuura’s husband. While Japan does not officially recognize same-sex unions, this move is unprecedented and marks a significant milestone.
Personal Reactions
Matsuura expressed his surprise and happiness at the registration. He described it as a groundbreaking decision, surpassing the existing non-legally-binding partnership system. He hopes that this recognition will lead to more practical benefits for same-sex couples and eventually pave the way for legalizing same-sex marriage.
Global Context
Comparatively, Taiwan stands as the only place in Asia with marriage equality, while Thailand has taken steps towards legalizing same-sex unions. In Japan, there is a growing support for LGBTQ-friendly laws, especially among the younger population, despite the conservative party’s hesitance to implement reforms.
Current Situation in Japan
Although Japan’s Constitution mentions marriage as requiring “the mutual consent of both sexes,” it also emphasizes equality under the law for all individuals. While major municipalities like Tokyo offer partnership certificates for same-sex couples, recent court cases on the constitutionality of same-sex marriage in Japan have resulted in conflicting judgments.