In recent years, much attention has been paid to the progress of LGBTQ+ awareness and institutions in Japan. However, from an overseas perspective, there are many areas where the efforts are noticeably lagging behind, particularly the lack of progress in legalizing same-sex marriage and the limited institutional efforts to eliminate prejudice. This article will delve into the current situation and issues in Japan, with perspectives from abroad.
Comparison with the LGBTQ+ Situation Overseas
First, in many countries, including Western countries, same-sex marriage has already been legalized. For example, in the United States, same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide in 2015. In Europe, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001, and many other countries have followed suit. In addition, same-sex marriage is also recognized in Asian and African countries such as South Africa and Taiwan.
On the other hand, same-sex marriage has not been legalized in Japan to date, and legal protections for same-sex couples are limited. Some local governments have introduced a partnership system and issue certificates to same-sex couples, but these certificates are not legally binding and couples cannot enjoy the legal rights that come with marriage, such as tax benefits and inheritance rights. In this respect, Japan is often regarded by foreign countries as a “developed country that is lagging behind.
Prejudice and Social Acceptance Challenges
Many foreign countries are working to increase understanding of LGBTQ+ people through education and the media. For example, in the United States and Canada, LGBTQ+ content is integrated into school curricula. Also, LGBTQ+ characters are increasingly playing major roles in pop culture, such as movies and TV dramas, which is said to be gradually reducing prejudice.
In Japan, however, prejudice is said to remain strong. Especially in social settings such as workplaces and schools, there is a high psychological hurdle for people to disclose that they are LGBTQ+. This has led many people to avoid coming out and choose to live their lives in concealment. This situation not only increases the psychological burden on individuals, but also undermines the diversity of society as a whole.
Progress in Japan and its Limitations
In Japan, awareness of LGBTQ+ issues has gradually increased in recent years: in 2015, Shibuya and Setagaya wards became the first in Japan to issue same-sex partnership certificates. Since then, the program has spread to other municipalities throughout Japan, and now more than 70 municipalities have introduced similar programs. In addition, an increasing number of major companies are also supporting LGBTQ+ employees and have introduced benefit programs that treat same-sex partners in the same way as spouses.
However, these efforts are mainly local, and the country as a whole has not yet developed legislation. Although there is ongoing debate in the National Diet on the legalization of same-sex marriage, no concrete progress has been made. This is due to multiple factors, including traditional views of the family and religious influences, as well as a conservative political system.
The Impact of the Foreign Gaze
Foreign attention to Japan’s LGBTQ+ efforts has the potential to inspire positive change. As international events and global companies increasingly expand their presence in Japan, the lagging response to LGBTQ+ issues can be a factor that affects the country’s image.
For example, the theme of the Tokyo Olympics was “Diversity and Harmony,” but the lack of legalized same-sex marriage and inadequate legal protections for LGBTQ+ people were criticized. It is hoped that through international events such as this, the current situation in Japan will become more widely known and serve as a catalyst for stimulating discussion within the country.
Future Challenges and Prospects
Several important steps are needed for Japan to advance its LGBTQ+ initiatives. First, the top priority is to develop legislation to legalize same-sex marriage. This will ensure that LGBTQ+ people enjoy equal legal rights. It is also important to work to reduce prejudice in society as a whole by spreading correct knowledge about LGBTQ+ through education and the media.
Furthermore, in order to expand efforts at the corporate and municipal levels to the entire country, the active involvement of the government is essential. This includes enacting policies, securing budgets, and even introducing institutions that draw on international best practices.
Conclusion
From an international perspective, Japan’s LGBTQ+ initiatives have made some progress, but many challenges remain. In particular, there is an urgent need to develop a legal framework and promote education and awareness-raising activities to eliminate prejudice. It is imperative that Japan evolve into a society that embraces diversity, while being aware of the international community’s perspective. Such a change would be of great benefit not only to LGBTQ+ people, but also to Japanese society as a whole.
