Author: Mari Yamaguchi

A Japanese business lobby is pushing for a change in the law to allow married couples to keep dual surnames, arguing that the current system hinders women’s advancement and poses a business risk. In Japan, couples are required to adopt one family name, with the majority of women typically taking their husband’s surname. This practice has been criticized for discouraging marriage and limiting women’s opportunities. Keidanren, The Japan Business Federation, is calling for a more inclusive and diverse society by allowing dual surnames. This proposal is supported by a survey showing that 88% of female executives are dissatisfied with the…

Stay Informed with the Latest Breaking News Sign Up for Our Free Breaking News Emails Japan is set to expand its commercial whaling activities to include fin whales, in addition to three smaller species, after withdrawing from the International Whaling Commission in 2019. The decision, supported by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, aims to promote the sustainable use of whales as part of Japan’s traditional food culture. The Fisheries Agency has initiated a public comment process for the proposed expansion, citing a sufficient recovery in the fin whale population in the North Pacific. Despite controversy surrounding Japan’s whaling practices, the…