Sapporo Couple Advocates for Selective Surname System Amid Ongoing Struggles

Residents of Sapporo, Mana Sato, 37, and Kiyotaka Nishi, 32, are pushing for Japan to implement a selective surname system for married couples. As they entered the new year, they felt a mixture of hope and anxiety, particularly given the support that parties favoring separate surnames received in the previous year's House of Representatives election. However, they are apprehensive about the enduring conservative mindset that could hinder progress on this issue.

Both working in the medical field, Sato and Nishi married in 2019, but the journey was not easy for Sato. Following their wedding, she was compelled to change her last name to Nishi, leading to a significant emotional toll. As her professional identity as “Mana Sato” began to fade from workplace documents and her name tag, Sato requested her colleagues to continue using her maiden name. Her boss's dismissive response left her feeling invalidated, leading to heightened stress that resulted in a diagnosis of adjustment disorder. Despite enjoying her job, she felt compelled to resign, expressing that keeping her surname would have spared her from such distress and contributed to a happier marital experience.

It wasn't until Sato openly communicated her resentment toward Nishi that he recognized the depth of her struggle. Just nine months after their marriage, they chose to divorce but remained common-law partners. Advocates for the traditional surname system argue that the practice fosters family unity, and some label those who wish to retain their original surnames as "selfish." Nonetheless, this debate touches on personal dignity and raises fundamental questions about human rights in Japan.

The call for a selective surname system has been on the table for nearly three decades, with the Ministry of Justice’s Legislative Council making recommendations long ago. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has resisted change, primarily to satisfy its conservative base. However, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has indicated a willingness to increase discussions around this topic. As the new year unfolds, it is essential for him to address the ongoing desires of individuals like Sato and Nishi and to work toward a resolution.