### Tokyo Court Upholds Ban on Same-Sex Marriage
A Tokyo district court has ruled that Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage does not violate the constitution. This decision contrasts with previous rulings from other regional courts that had fueled hopes for national marriage equality.
### Legal Reasoning Behind the Decision
The court stated that the Japanese constitution recognizes marriage only between a man and a woman. Judges argued that any change to this interpretation requires legislative action, not judicial intervention. They also noted that same-sex couples already receive certain partnership rights at local levels, which partially address their legal needs.
### Mixed Reactions and Broader Context
LGBTQ+ activists expressed disappointment, saying the ruling highlights ongoing discrimination and falls short of ensuring equal rights. Supporters of the decision contend that it respects Japan’s traditional family structure while leaving room for public debate.
> “We will continue to fight until everyone can marry the person they love,” one activist said after the verdict.
Japan remains the only G7 nation that does not legally recognize same-sex marriage, even as public opinion shifts toward greater inclusivity.
### Author’s Summary
The Tokyo court reaffirmed that Japan's constitution limits marriage to heterosexual couples, underscoring the need for legislative—not judicial—change to achieve marriage equality.
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BBC — 2025-11-28