The Emperor said he hopes that measures to ensure the number of imperial family members will gain the understanding of the public [1].
This statement comes as Japan grapples with a shrinking imperial lineage, a situation that threatens the long-term stability of the throne's succession. Because the current system limits membership, the government is weighing various legal adjustments to prevent the family from becoming too small to function.
The remarks were made during a press conference held today, June 11, 2026 [1], at the Imperial Palace press area in Tokyo [1]. The Emperor said he believes public support and understanding are necessary to stabilize the succession of the throne and prevent further decreases in the number of royal members [2, 3].
The discussion follows political debates regarding how to expand the family. The Centrist Reform Union said it would accept a plan allowing female imperial members to retain their status after marriage [4]. Additionally, the party's position includes accepting the adoption of male descendants from former imperial branches into the royal family [4].
However, these proposals have not met with universal agreement. Yoshihiko Noda, the former co-leader of the Centrist Reform Union, said he questioned the specific part of the plan that allows for the adoption of male descendants from former imperial branches [5].
The Emperor's comments preceded his departure for a visit to Europe, specifically the Netherlands and Belgium, which is scheduled to begin on June 13, 2026 [1].
“I hope that it will be something that gains the understanding of the people.”
The Emperor's public appeal for 'understanding' signals a delicate balancing act between tradition and survival. By highlighting the need for public consensus, the monarchy is acknowledging that any shift toward allowing female members to retain their status or reintegrating former imperial branches requires societal legitimacy to avoid political backlash or challenges to the throne's legitimacy.
