I Have Mixed Feelings: Japan’s Crown Prince Akishino Speaks Out On Succession Law

Japanese Crown Prince Akishino said he has “mixed feelings” about Japan’s revised male only imperial succession law, in rare remarks that have renewed debate over Princess Aiko, gender equality and the future of the monarchy.

Akishino, the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito and next in line to the throne, spoke at a news conference on Thursday ahead of his visit to Paraguay later this month. The trip will mark 90 years of Japanese emigration to the South American country.

“I believe there is no difference between men and women” in carrying out the roles of the imperial family and responding to society’s needs, Akishino said.

Asked about the government’s decision to retain male only succession, he said, “I have mixed feelings about it, and it’s rather strange if I don’t.” He also called it a difficult issue and said, “the reality is that I can’t talk about it.”

“The society needs to keep making progress,” Akishino said, adding that people with different views should continue thinking about what is best.

His comments came after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s conservative government revised the Imperial House Law, while keeping the rule that only men from the paternal line can become emperor. The change has drawn criticism from those who say the system is outdated and unfair to women.

The rule means Princess Aiko, 24, cannot inherit the throne, despite her popularity and support among many Japanese. The succession currently passes to Akishino, followed by his 19 year old son, Prince Hisahito. After Hisahito comes the emperor’s 90 year old uncle.

The revised law allows princesses to retain their royal status and continue official duties if they marry commoners. However, their husbands and children will remain outside the imperial family.

Another major change allows unmarried male descendants aged 15 or older from former imperial branches to be adopted into the royal family. Only those from the paternal line can qualify.

Japan has had eight female monarchs, with Empress Gosakuramachi the last, ruling from 1762 to 1770. Male only succession was first written into law in 1890 and was carried into the 1947 Imperial House Law.