La privazione della propria individualità: analisi sugli sviluppi della legge sul singolo patronimico per le coppie sposate in Giappone

The article examines Japan’s legal requirement for married couples to adopt a single surname, focusing on its impact on gender discrimination and individual identity. Predominantly affecting women, with 95% adopting their husband’s surname, this practice is rooted in the patriarchal ie system and continues to emphasize family unity under one name, significantly impacting women’s identities. Despite reforms aimed at gender equality, the single surname requirement persists, perpetuating discrimination by compelling women to relinquish their surnames, which hold significant personal and social value. International law, particularly the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), has been critical in pressuring the Japanese government to align national laws with international standards and empowering civil society to push for changes. The article also explores the role of strategic litigation in fostering social change.