Wednesday, April 1, 2026-Japan has introduced a landmark reform allowing divorced couples to share custody of their children, ending decades of a system that traditionally awarded custody to only one parent.
The change aims to reduce the social and emotional impact on children who previously had limited contact with the non-custodial parent, and to promote more balanced parental involvement after separation.
The reform comes after years of advocacy by family rights groups and international organizations, which highlighted the psychological harm caused by sole custody arrangements.
Under the new rules, parents can develop joint custody agreements, with courts facilitating arrangements that prioritize the welfare and stability of the child.
Experts suggest the shift could reshape family dynamics in Japan, encouraging co-parenting and reducing legal disputes.
While challenges remain in implementation, including ensuring compliance and managing logistical issues, the change represents a major step toward modernizing family law in the country and aligning it with international standards.
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