Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s recent comments defending Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage have been met with criticism from opposition lawmakers and LGBTQ activists. Despite recent apologies and meetings with LGBTQ representatives, Kishida insisted that constitutional freedom of marriage only applies to heterosexual unions. His comments have been seen as backtracking on his pledge to create a diverse and inclusive society.
Kishida’s governing Liberal Democratic Party has been known for its conservative family values and opposition to gender equality and sexual diversity. The party is virtually the main opposition to legalization of same-sex marriage and other measures of equality for LGBTQ people. The Prime Minister’s comment has sparked criticism, with many questioning whether he is backpedaling to show consideration to ultra-conservatives in his party who oppose sexual diversity.
The controversy has led to renewed calls for the Kishida government to enact anti-discrimination legislation even after the sacking of a former Kishida aide who made discriminatory remarks about LGBTQ people. Activists are urging the government to enact anti-discrimination legislation before Japan hosts a summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations in May in Hiroshima. Japan is the only G-7 member that has not recognized same-sex marriage or enacted an anti-discrimination law for LGBTQ people.
Despite Kishida’s pledge to create an inclusive and diverse society, campaigns for equal rights for LGBTQ people have been stonewalled especially by conservatives in his governing Liberal Democratic Party. While surveys show growing public support for same-sex unions, government efforts to support sexual diversity have been slow in Japan and legal protections are still lacking for LGBTQ people.