In America, adoption is widely accepted, and commonly celebrated. But in Japan, issues such as tradition, family name, and inheritance often make adoption more about practicality than anything else.

Writer Matt Holland explored the challenges facing adoptive parents and children in Japan in his Oct. 21 article on the website Global Voices Online:

There are presently a number of conflicting forces at play: a disapproval of adoption from those valuing past norms, yet many of these people are the ones adopting heirs into their family near the end of their lives. This negative viewpoint also clashes with the many younger families who are seeking to adopt, rejecting past ideals and placing the importance on their present family.

International adoptions involving Japanese children can be just as challenging. In 2008, a combination of obstacles meant that just 35 families from the United States adopted Japanese children. The Japanese government says changes are being made, Holland reported -- but the changes are happening slowly, while thousands of children wait for permanent homes.

Labels: international, japan

Posted By: Aspen/CRC