June 4, 2019

The Japanese Communist Party, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, and the Social Democratic Party on June 3 submitted to the House of Representatives a bill to legalize the marriage of two persons of the same sex.

As the Japanese Civil Code at present does not recognize same-sex marriage, the bill is aimed to achieve "equality in marriage" regardless of sexual orientation.

After the submission of the bill, CDPJ member of the Lower House Nishimura Chinami said, "Marriage between people of the same sex is currently not legally recognized, which is a big obstacle for Japan to become a society which ensures the basic human rights of all people. It is the Diet's responsibility to help to build a diverse society where everyone can live with dignity."

Lower House lawmaker Fujino Yasufumi of the JCP said, "Family lifestyles are now diversifying. It is necessary to legally recognize sexual diversity and family diversity. The dignity of individuals must be respected and their relationships respected as well. The more diverse the society, better for everyone. In this regard, this bill is very important."

Past related articles:
> Gay worker in Hyogo wins right to equal treatment in his workplace [February 6, 2017]
> A society benefitting LGBT community will benefit all [May 18, 2015]
> JCP Ikeuchi pushes gov’t to protect LGBT rights [March 6, 2015]