Growing popularity of Princess Aiko reopens the debate on male imperial succession in Japan

"Princess Aiko of Japan, the only daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, turned 24 on Monday as her popularity soars and she takes on a growing role in official events. Her rising prestige has reopened the debate in a patriarchal and traditionalist society about the possibility of a woman inheriting the throne, despite the Salic law that governs Japan's rules of imperial succession."

"Aiko's supporters are calling for the change to be made as soon as possible, as a way to safeguard the dynastic line of the world's oldest reigning monarchy. There is a sense of urgency, with Naruhito's 19-year-old nephew, Hisahito, now the only male descendant of the younger generation in a dwindling imperial family. Experts warn that legislative changes would not be easy, given the opposition from conservative members of parliament, who are reluctant to get involved in such a sensitive issue."

"Takaichi herself whom many consider reluctant to implement policies aimed at reducing gender inequality has spoken out in the past against altering the current succession system. The rules are determined by the Imperial Household Law of 1947. In theory, amending this law an ordinary law is less demanding than revising the Constitution. A bill submitted by the government or members of the Diet (the Japanese parliament) and its approval by a simple majority in both houses is sufficient,"

Princess Aiko turned 24 as her popularity rises and she assumes a larger role in official events. Her elevated standing has reopened debate over permitting a woman to inherit the Chrysanthemum Throne despite the Salic-based Imperial Household Law of 1947. Public polls show strong support for a female successor, and supporters urge rapid legal change to protect the imperial line as the only younger-generation male heir is 19-year-old Hisahito. Political obstacles include conservative Diet members and past statements by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi opposing succession reform. Amending the Imperial Household Law requires ordinary legislative approval but demands broad national consensus because of its symbolic weight.

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