Japan’s 85-year-old Emperor Akihito plans to end his three-decade reign when he abdicates to his son Crown Prince Naruhito. He’ll be the first Japanese emperor to abdicate in 200 years.
Japan's Emperor Akihito waves to well-wishers after delivering a speech marking his 85th birthday at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Dec. 23, 2018.
Here are some key questions and answers about the abdication and ascension, and other examples abroad:Akihito, citing concerns about his age and declining health, expressed in August 2016 his wish to abdicate while he was still well and capable.
Aiko, 17, is barred from inheriting under Japan’s male-only succession law, and the line goes to Naruhito’s brother, Fumihito, better known by his childhood title, Akishino. Fumihito’s 12-year-old son, Hisahito, would be next. Discussions on changing the law to allow female succession quickly ended with Hisahito’s birth, but they are expected to resume, with Akihito’s abdication raising concerns about the royal family’s future.
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