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Japan allows joint child custody after divorce

Divorcing parents in Japan can choose shared custody starting Wednesday, replacing a system criticised for encouraging parental child “abductions” and defended as a safeguard for domestic abuse survivors.

Published Apr 1, 2026, 12:19 AM EDT | WFMZZ

Divorcing parents in Japan can opt to share custody starting Wednesday, replacing a sole-custody framework. The previous system drew criticism for encouraging parental child “abductions,” while supporters argued it protected survivors of domestic abuse.