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Japan to Allow Joint Custody for Divorced Couples in 2026

4/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Starting April 1, 2026, divorced couples in Japan can negotiate joint custody.
The Civil Code previously mandated sole custody decisions.
Mothers currently receive custody in about 85% of cases, and about 200,000 children are affected annually.
Critics warn joint custody could enable abusive ex-spouses to exploit access to children.
Supporters say the change aligns Japan with other G7 nations and lets both parents participate in key decisions.

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Story summary

Starting April 1, 2026, divorced couples in Japan can negotiate joint custody.
The Civil Code previously mandated sole custody decisions.
Mothers currently receive custody in about 85% of cases, and about 200,000 children are affected annually.
Critics warn joint custody could enable abusive ex-spouses to exploit access to children.
Supporters say the change aligns Japan with other G7 nations and lets both parents participate in key decisions.