A growing chorus of voices in Japan is questioning why Princess Aiko, the empire’s most beloved member, is barred from becoming empress. The 24-year-old princess commands widespread adoration, frequently gracing magazine covers and drawing massive crowds to public events, where she is praised for her dignity and grace. Yet, current law prohibits her from ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne.
As the imperial family continues to shrink, frustration is mounting among the public regarding the succession rules. According to a recent poll, 72% of respondents support amending the law to allow a woman to reign as emperor, signaling a significant shift in public sentiment toward gender equality in the monarchy.
72% is a huge majority. I wonder why the government has been dragging its feet on this for so long.
Aiko is incredibly popular. Honestly, if she were in the UK, she would have been queen ages ago by now.
But what about the traditionalists? Will this change really happen, or is it just loud public opinion without legal teeth?
I never realized the imperial family was shrinking this fast. It is shocking how many male heirs are missing.
It is about time. Seven decades of tradition should not outweigh the will of the people and modern values.