Thursday, December 07, 2017, 15:00 - 16:00
How Japan's Legal System is Tearing International Same-sex Couples Apart
Language: The speech and Q & A will be in English and Japanese with English interpretation
While Japan is accepting of foreign spouses to both Japanese and foreigners, the same is definitely not true for same-sex couples. Now, a Taiwanese man threatened with deportation and separation from his Japanese partner of more than 20 years is fighting in court to establish his status. Lawyers for the man believe that if the couple were heterosexual or both foreigners, the problem wouldn't exist and they see the issue as one of human rights and the "right to pursue happiness," as written in the Constitution.
With the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games holding the view that discrimination based on sexual orientation is wrong, some see Japan holding a double standard.
To discuss the issue, the FCCJ will host Hiroshi Ikeda, Co-chair of Partnership Law Japan; lawyer Yoshie Yokoyama, also of Partnership Law Japan; and Meiji University Professor Ken Suzuki, who specializes in Chinese and Taiwanese Law.
Please reserve in advance, 3211-3161 or on the website (still & TV cameras inclusive). Reservations and cancellations are not complete without confirmation.
Professional Activities Committee
Hiroshi Ikeda Yoshie Yokoyama Ken Suzuki