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Japan's High Court Declares Same-Sex Marriage Ban Unconstitutional

In a landmark ruling, the court urges government action to legalize same-sex unions, marking a significant step towards marriage equality.

A supporter for the LGBTQ+ community holds up a poster as plaintiffs speak in front of media members by the main entrance of the Tokyo district court after hearing the ruling regarding LGBTQ+ marriage rights, in Tokyo, Thursday, March 14, 2024. The poster reads, "Legalize the same-sex marriage." The Japanese court on Thursday ruled that not allowing same-sex couples the same marital benefits as heterosexuals violates their fundamental right to have a family, but the current civil law did not take into consideration sexual diversity and is not clearly unconstitutional, a partial victory for Japan's LGBTQ+ community calling for equal marriage rights.
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Overview

  • A high court in Japan ruled that the country's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, urging the government to take action.
  • The ruling marks a significant step towards marriage equality in Japan, as it's the first High Court decision on the matter.
  • Despite the ruling, the court does not have the power to overturn the current marriage law, leaving it to the government to enact changes.
  • Public support for same-sex marriage in Japan has surged, with recent polls showing 70% support.
  • Japan remains the only G7 nation without legal recognition of same-sex unions, but the ruling is expected to pressure lawmakers for action.