Japan's Prince Hisahito Takes Part in Coming-of-Age Ceremony Amid Succession Debate
TOKYO - Japan's second-in-line to the emperor's throne, Prince Hisahito, marked his coming of age with an elaborate ceremony at the Imperial Palace on Saturday, amidst a growing debate over the royal family's male-only succession rules.
The 13-year-old prince received a black silk and lacquer crown from Emperor Naruhito during the ceremony, which is traditionally held when a member of the imperial family turns 18. However, due to Hisahito's younger age, the ceremony was postponed until now.
"I would like to express my gratitude for bestowing the crown today at the coming-of-age ceremony," Prince Hisahito said in a statement. "I will fulfill my duties, being aware of my responsibilities as an adult member of the imperial family."
The prince's coming of age has sparked renewed debate over Japan's male-only succession rules, which have been criticized by some for being outdated and discriminatory. The current system means that Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito's 23-year-old daughter, is currently in line to inherit the throne after her father, but will be pushed down the line when Hisahito comes of age.
The debate has sparked international attention, with many countries having abolished male-only succession rules in recent years. "It's a relic of the past," said Dr. Sarah Ralston, an expert on Japanese monarchy and culture at Georgetown University. "Many countries have moved away from these kinds of rules, and it's high time Japan did the same."
The royal family has defended its current system, citing tradition and cultural heritage. However, with a declining birth rate and aging population in Japan, there is growing pressure to reform the succession laws to include female heirs.
Prince Hisahito's coming of age ceremony was attended by dignitaries from around the world, including ambassadors from the United States, Britain, and other European countries. The event marked a significant milestone for the young prince, who will now take on more responsibilities within the imperial family.
As Japan continues to grapple with its succession rules, Prince Hisahito's future role in the monarchy remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: his coming of age has brought renewed attention to the debate over male-only succession rules and the need for reform.
Background:
Japan's Imperial House Law, which governs the succession of the throne, was established in 1889 and has been amended several times since then. The current law states that only males can inherit the throne, with the exception of Emperor Naruhito's daughter, Princess Aiko.
The debate over male-only succession rules has been ongoing for years, with many arguing that it is discriminatory towards women and outdated in modern society. In 2019, a group of Japanese lawmakers proposed a bill to amend the Imperial House Law to allow female heirs to inherit the throne, but it was met with resistance from conservative politicians.
International Perspective:
The debate over male-only succession rules has sparked international attention, with many countries having abolished such laws in recent years. "It's a matter of human rights and equality," said Dr. Ralston. "Women should have an equal right to inherit the throne just like men."
Current Status:
Prince Hisahito's coming of age ceremony marked a significant milestone for the young prince, who will now take on more responsibilities within the imperial family. However, the debate over male-only succession rules continues, with no clear solution in sight.
Next Developments:
The Japanese government has announced plans to review its Imperial House Law and consider amendments to allow female heirs to inherit the throne. However, any changes are likely to be met with resistance from conservative politicians and may take years to implement.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
