Opinion on the Introduction of a Discretional Separate-surname Retaining System
August 19, 2021
Japan Federation of Bar Associations
The Japan Federation of Bar Associations (“JFBA”) compiled an opinion paper, “Opinion on the Introduction of a Discretional Separate-surname Retaining System” dated August 19, 2021, and submitted it on August 20, 2021 to the Prime Minister; the Minister of State for Gender Equality; and the Minister of Justice.
Summary of Opinion
The JFBA urges the Government to amend Article 750 of the Civil Code mandating the same surname for a husband and wife, and introduce immediately a discretional separate-surname retaining system that allows people to enter into marriage with their respective premarital surnames retained, if they wish to do so.
