Six couples have taken a bold step, challenging the long-standing Japanese law mandating married couples to share the same surname. This move, seen as an attempt to break free from a century-old tradition that perpetuates inequality, draws attention to the personal and practical challenges it poses. This comes amid International Women’s Day, highlighting the disproportionate impact on women. If deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, the law will undergo parliamentary review.
While previous legal challenges including one in 2021, faced dismissals by Japan’s top court and calls for change have turned up. As awareness grows regarding the professional setbacks endured by women, lawyers and opposition heading the current lawsuit are professing confidence.
The single-surname system, dating back to 1898, solidifies Japan’s patriarchal family structure. While technically allowing husbands to adopt their wives’ surnames, the practice overwhelmingly sees wives changing their names. As more women pursue careers, maintaining their maiden names becomes crucial, yet this difference between legal and professional identities leads to daily inconveniences.
The situation in India mirrors this struggle, where societal norms dictate that women adopt their husbands’ surnames post-marriage. While legally permissible, the pressure to conform often overshadows individual choice. However, a few notable actresses, such as Priyanka Chopra-Jonas and Kareena Kapoor-Khan, have embraced both their maiden and in-law surnames, challenging conventions and setting examples for others.
This legal battle in Japan not only questions the rigidity of traditional norms but also prompts reflection on similar challenges faced in other societies. It underscores the need for a more inclusive and flexible approach towards identity and equality, urging a shift away from outdated customs towards empowering individuals to make choices that reflect their true selves.
