Japan¡¯s imperial family, which has long maintained a male-only lineage for emperors, is running out of royals. Now the country has a plan to help revitalize its dwindling ranks: recruit more men.
Japan¡¯s legislature, hoping to avoid a succession crisis, moved forward with a proposal this past week to allow the imperial family to adopt scores of distant male relatives. That could give Japan more choices for future emperors ¡ª only men are allowed to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne ¡ª and help ensure the survival of the world¡¯s oldest monarchy.
The plan has angered some Japanese officials, commentators and activists, who say there is an easier solution: allowing women to reign as emperor, an idea embraced by a broad swath of the public, according to polls.
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