As foreign countries join together to urge Japan to recognize the rights of the child and the separated parent in international dispute cases, I need to add my voice and those of my family and friends. These sad situations cause ongoing pain and deep distress not only to the parent but also to the grandparents, and all the extended family and friends.
Surely a child of mixed parentage needs to know and relish both cultures in order to mature as a young person who is proud and confident of his or her place in a global world. Both families must have the opportunity to offer a wider worldview, thus enriching life experiences for the child.
Times have indeed changed and fathers are more and more involved in the rearing of their children. Japan needs to urgently address the issue of awarding custody to just one parent and to consider the ongoing welfare of the child and the loving parent and relatives.