Not allowing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. Period. The latest ruling sends a strong message and should be enough to pressure the government to change the law which violates same-sex couples' fundamental rights by denying them legal protection. This ruling may be a step forward but Japan's situation is still disappointing.
The ban on same-sex marriage is in keeping with the constitution, which guarantees heterosexual couples the right to marry under Article 24. Allowing same-sex couples to marry legally would fundamentally change Japanese society and values, which is why the government must avoid making hasty decisions regarding gender equality and sexual diversity.
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