Japan’s Diet is currently reviewing the law that was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court last October, which required sterilization surgery for transgender individuals seeking to change their legal gender. The proposed amendments include controversial measures such as mandatory hormone treatment and a lengthy waiting period, prompting concerns from advocacy groups like the World Professional Association of Transgender Health.
Advocates are urging lawmakers to eliminate the current stringent requirements for legal gender recognition, which include psychiatric evaluations and sterilization. Instead, they recommend implementing a more inclusive self-declaration process that respects the rights of transgender individuals. By aligning with international standards and separating medical and legal procedures related to gender transition, Japan has the opportunity to establish comprehensive legal protections for its transgender population.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s recent statement emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse gender identities underscores the need for progressive reforms in Japan’s legal framework. The Diet’s decision to prioritize respect for individual gender identity and remove discriminatory barriers could set a positive precedent for other countries and ensure greater equality for transgender individuals in Japanese society.