“Japan’s Supreme Court has ruled that it is unconstitutional to require citizens to be sterilised before they can officially change genders,” according to BBC, Oct. 25, 2023. The law was challenged by a transgender woman, who filed a petition, which led to Wednesday’s decision. The decision overturns a 2019 court decision that concluded the same statute was lawful. The World Health Organization opposes the obligation for sterilization surgery, which is enforced in 18 nations, including Japan. Furthermore, it is the only country among the Group of Seven (G7) not to allow same-sex unions legally. Human Rights Watch celebrates Wednesday’s ruling, calling it an “important victory for transgender rights in Japan”.
World Map: Japan 12/5/23
December 5, 2023
About the Contributor
Grace Dannemiller, International News Corespondent
Hello! my name is Grace Dannemiller. I am the International News Correspondent. This is my second year on staff. In my free time I have been writing and public speaking about neurodiversity and mental health. I hope to continue to pursue my passion for journalism as a career one day.