Japan has taken a significant step towards allowing divorced couples to negotiate joint custody of their children, a move that aims to address the psychological impact on children and enable both parents to play an active role in their upbringing.
The recent legal changes, supported by various political parties, will align Japan with many other countries that already recognize joint custody as a viable option for divorced parents.
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Concerns have been raised about potential risks associated with joint custody, particularly in cases of child abuse or domestic violence. However, safeguards will be in place to protect children and victims of abuse.
The bill, which has passed the lower house, is expected to become law before the end of the current parliamentary session, marking a significant shift in Japan’s custody laws for the first time in over seven decades.
The move towards joint custody reflects the evolving family dynamics in Japan, where traditional values are being challenged by changing societal norms. This change is crucial for the well-being of children affected by divorce, a number that has doubled in the past 50 years.
With an increasing number of children losing contact with non-custodial parents post-divorce, the new legislation aims to ensure that the child’s best interests are prioritized in custody decisions made by family courts.
2024-04-16 23:41:02
Post from www.theguardian.com