The ambassadors to Japan of six of the seven advanced nations (G7), excluding Japan, and the ambassadors of the European Union (EU) jointly compiled a letter addressed to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urging legislation to protect the human rights of sexual minorities (LGBTQ). This was confirmed by interviews with several diplomatic sources.Arai, former secretary to the prime ministerKatsuki(Masayoshi)US Ambassador Emanuel took the initiative in the wake of his discriminatory remarks. The Japanese government, the only member of the G7 that does not have a law against discrimination and does not recognize same-sex marriage, is urging the Japanese government to take action, given that the prime minister will chair the Hiroshima Summit in May this year. (Mari Yuzuki)
The letter is dated February 17th. Although it was treated as a “private letter,” it was signed by seven ambassadors, including Emmanuel.
A high-ranking Japanese government official told the Mainichi Shimbun on the 15th, “I don’t know what happened during the process, but I think they didn’t receive it in the end.”
According to a copy of the letter obtained by this paper, bearing in mind that Japan is lagging behind in developing legislation to protect LGBTQ rights, he said, “Japan, as the chair, is blessed with a unique opportunity to bring about equal rights for all.” He pointed out that it would be possible to keep pace with the movement of the international community.
Although he did not directly refer to the discriminatory remarks made by the former secretary to the prime minister, he said, “Not only is public opinion in Japan demanding equal rights for LGBTQ people growing, but protecting parties from discrimination is important for economic growth, security, and family unity.” will also contribute,” he stressed. He also mentioned that Japan signed the final outcome document of last year’s G7 summit, which stated that “all people should be protected from discrimination and violence” regarding gender equality. I want to make sure that we are free from discrimination regardless of the situation.”
According to people familiar with the matter, the ambassadors initially considered issuing a formal statement, but they were concerned that it would be interpreted as interference in their internal affairs, so they decided to inform each country’s intentions unofficially.
Prior to summarizing the letter, Mr. Emmanuel held a press conference at the Japan National Press Club on February 15, urging the prime minister and the Diet to “not only promote understanding (of LGBTQ), but also take clear and necessary measures against discrimination.” Ordered.
On February 17, the prime minister met with representatives of groups concerned with the problem and expressed his intention to work toward the realization of a society where diversity is respected. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has been instructed to proceed with preparations for submission of a bill to promote understanding of LGBTQ people compiled by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, but discussions within the party have yet to begin.
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