The Emperor of Japan said on June 11, 2026, that he hopes for public understanding regarding measures to secure the number of imperial family members [1].
This statement comes as the Japanese government considers legal changes to prevent the imperial family from shrinking. The debate centers on whether to allow female members to remain in the family after marriage, or to adopt male descendants from former imperial branches.
Speaking at a press conference at the Imperial Palace before his visit to the Netherlands and Belgium, the Emperor emphasized the role of the monarchy. He said the basis of the imperial family's activities is to always wish for the happiness of the people and to share in their joys and sorrows [1].
Regarding the specific legal changes, the Emperor said he would refrain from commenting on the details of the system. However, he expressed his hope that the discussions on securing the number of royal family members would result in a plan that earns the understanding of the public [1].
Public opinion remains divided on the proposed solutions. A poll showed that 85% of the public support the idea of a female emperor, while 11% oppose it [1]. In contrast, the proposal to adopt male members from former imperial branches has less consensus, with 45% in favor and 39% opposed [1].
Prime Minister Takaichi has prioritized the plan to adopt male descendants from former imperial branches [1]. This legislative effort involves input from 13 different political parties [6].
The current proposals aim to address the long-term sustainability of the monarchy by expanding the pool of eligible royal members through these two primary legal avenues [2, 3].
“"I hope that the discussions on securing the number of royal family members will result in a plan that earns the understanding of the public."”
The Emperor's rare mention of the royal family's size reflects the urgency of a looming succession crisis. By framing the issue around 'public understanding' and 'the happiness of the people,' the monarchy is attempting to bridge the gap between traditionalist government priorities—such as Prime Minister Takaichi's preference for male lineage—and a public that overwhelmingly supports a female succession.
